🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B. Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists. The Moving Performance The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success. Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely. Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, 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 precise and reactive to their live band. Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Spirit Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Thoughts While the night's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.