R&B Christmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.
Then, nine songs into her set, 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 deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the evening embraced the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
While the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
