R&B Xmas Ball Recap: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.
However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage 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 sparkle rather than frost.
