Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded 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 night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.