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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching 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 harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful 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 glitches, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.