Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.