This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
Professional poker player and coach with over a decade of experience, specializing in tournament strategy and mental game techniques.
John Robertson
John Robertson
John Robertson
John Robertson