🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B. Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists. The Powerful Set The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest success. Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly. Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos Taking the stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band. Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Cheer Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Thoughts Although the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.