R&B Xmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties

The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their performance featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.