Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
The Powerful Performance
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.
However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “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 encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set included covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
While the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.