Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Review: An Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s

This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

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

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

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

Overall Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.