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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Moving Performance

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.

However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable 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 turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.