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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Set

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

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.