Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing 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 declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance included covers of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.
