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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

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

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

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

Final Impressions

Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.