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The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their performance included interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the night's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.