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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

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

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

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.