R&B Xmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s

This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

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 Touch of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.

Richard Taylor
Richard Taylor

Maya Sterling is a seasoned gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in online casinos, specializing in slot reviews and player strategies.