Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Moving Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak fame.
However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature 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 moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
