Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Review: A Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood 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.
Final Impressions
While the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.