đ Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B. Opening Performances: Classic Feelings The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts. Toni Braxton's Moving Performance The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasnât Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success. Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. âAs long as I live, I will never forget tonight,â she declared earnestly. Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band. Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Marsâs Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Cheer Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, Iâll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Thoughts While the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.