Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.
However, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set included covers of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.
