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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, 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 Spirit

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

Final Impressions

Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.