R&B Christmas Ball Recap: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.
However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances 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 production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.