🔗 Share this article

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage 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 stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.