R&B Christmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke 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 emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured covers of influences, 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 Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded 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 night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.