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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended 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 had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.