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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Moving Set

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

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured covers of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of hits 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 stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.