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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing 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 inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute 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.