Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Feelings
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Performance
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.
Their performance featured covers of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired 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 strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
