Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
