R&B Xmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.
Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
While the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
