R&B Xmas Ball Review: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their performance included interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended 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 artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.