Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.
However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
