Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: A Emotional Journey Returning to the Nineties
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
