R&B Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Moving Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-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 responsive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
