Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Review: A Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “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 emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included covers of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
