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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing 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 stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their set included covers of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale 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 feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.