R&B Xmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s

This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their performance included covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.