Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s

This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a live band appeared 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 never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.