🔗 Share this article

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her peak fame.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

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

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.