🔗 Share this article R&B Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Trip Returning to the Nineties The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B. Opening Performances: Classic Vibes Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists. The Powerful Performance The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame. However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly. Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment. Their set included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Spirit Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Impressions Although the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.