R&B Christmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Journey Back to the Nineties
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the concert turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale 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 experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.
