R&B Christmas Ball Review: A Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Moving Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak fame.
However, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced 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 performance concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
