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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

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

The Moving Set

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 show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.

However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage 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 launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

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

Overall Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.