R&B Christmas Concert Review: An Emotional Journey Returning to the Nineties

The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run 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 had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.