Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak success.
However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their performance featured covers of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Spirit
Finally, 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 evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
