R&B Christmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Trip Returning to the Nineties
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
