Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the time period 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. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured covers of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded 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 experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.