Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: A Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties

This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their performance included 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 Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.