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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest success.

However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their set included covers of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

While the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.