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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “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, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired 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 performance ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.