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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest fame.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, 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, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

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

Overall Thoughts

While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.