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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

Although the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.