Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Moving Set
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her peak fame.
However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their performance included interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.