đ Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B. Opening Performances: Classic Feelings Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts. The Moving Performance The opening of Burna Boyâs Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasnât Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame. Then, nine songs into her performance, 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 gave a deeply heartfelt performance. âFor as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,â she stated sincerely. Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band. Their performance included covers of influences, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Marsâs Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Holiday Spirit Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, Iâll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Impressions While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.