R&B Xmas Concert Review: A Emotional Trip Returning to the Nineties
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Powerful Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.
Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip 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: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, 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 performance included interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
