Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest fame.
Then, nine songs into her set, 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 deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
