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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Moving Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her peak fame.

However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured 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 Dash of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the concert turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded 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 night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.