🔗 Share this article

The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

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

Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of hits 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 sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.