R&B Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience 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 musical heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles 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 heartfelt 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, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the concert turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.
