R&B Xmas Ball Review: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.
