Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: A Heartfelt Trip Back to the Nineties
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
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 ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest success.
Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.
Their set included interpretations of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas theme 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 Impressions
While the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.
