R&B Xmas Ball Review: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s

The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed 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 performance included covers of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful 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 experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.