R&B Xmas Ball Review: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.
However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For 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 crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance included covers of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
