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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

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

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.

However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, 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 tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the concert 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.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.