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This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their holiday records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience'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 Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their performance featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.