R&B Xmas Ball Review: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance featured covers of influences, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions 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 night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.