Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.
Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared 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 slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.
