Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Review: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s

This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable 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 mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.