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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. 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 dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of anthems 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 glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.