š Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Trip Returning to the Nineties The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B. Opening Performances: Classic Feelings Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts. Toni Braxton's Powerful Set The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasnāt Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame. However, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. āFor as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,ā she declared earnestly. Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment. Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Marsās Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Christmas Cheer Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, Iāll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Impressions While the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.