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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she opened up 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 moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the concert embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.