Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage 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 stated earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert embraced the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
