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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest success.

However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their performance featured interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.