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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their performance included covers of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.