Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Review: An Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance included covers of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
