π Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B. Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists. The Powerful Performance The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasnβt Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame. Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. βAs long as I live, I will never forget tonight,β she stated sincerely. Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment. Their performance included interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Marsβs Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Holiday Cheer Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, Iβll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Thoughts Although the night's production experienced 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 transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.