R&B Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
