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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

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

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

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

Overall Thoughts

While the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.