R&B Christmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Journey Returning to the Nineties

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the holiday 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.

Final Thoughts

Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.