Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Recap: A Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s

The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For 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, cementing her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured covers of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong 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 technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.