Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Journey Returning to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
The Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing 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 sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
