R&B Christmas Ball Recap: A Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
The Moving Set
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued 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 greatest success.
However, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “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 flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their performance included covers of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
While the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.