Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Trip Returning to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set included interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
