Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.
Their performance included interpretations of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.
