🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the Nineties This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B. Starting Acts: Classic Feelings Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts. The Moving Set The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame. However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly. Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band. Their performance included interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Holiday Spirit Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Thoughts Although the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.