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The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic 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 headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.