Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Review: An Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the main acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Performance
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout solo 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 holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.