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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

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

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

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

Final Impressions

While the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.