Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their performance featured covers of inspirations, 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 Holiday Spirit
Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
