Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties

This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.