Seductive McKnight, Benet Sets Evoke Memories of Purple Reign

Taking different approaches to the role of soul seducer, R&B-pop; hit makers Eric Benet and Brian McKnight brought the warmth of sweet romance to a packed Universal Amphitheatre on Friday. Each singer-songwriter made his mark with a signature stylistic blend, but the show ultimately served as a reminder that the genre is still haunted by the shadow of Prince.

Musical references to the Purple One’s ‘80s work popped up once or twice during headliner McKnight’s 90-minute set, as the Buffalo, N.Y., native occasionally joined his backing sextet to demonstrate his prowess on guitar and keyboards. He also stepped out smoothly with his dancers during some of the hip-hop-flavored tunes from his current album, “Back at One.” Where Benet comfortably evoked Prince’s naughtier bits, McKnight’s approach was more clean-cut.

Indeed, McKnight was better when singing such persuasive bedroom ballads as “Stay,” as well as dispensing tried-and-true romantic advice with “Cherish.” Yet his gospel roots proved strongest, as his one religious number clearly moved him most.

Barefoot and dreadlocked, Benet gleefully played the bold bohemian Romeo, flaunting his pliant yet commanding technique in “That’s Just My Way” and other selections from his 1999 album “A Day in the Life.” The blend of hip-hop, funk, rock, soul and Latin in his 45-minute performance was more organic than McKnight’s, and the Milwaukee-born crooner offered a broader range of moods, relishing his lascivious promises and romantic revenge fantasies as much as his pledges of devotion.