R&B Christmas Concert Review: A Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s

This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their performance featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale 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 feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.