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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest fame.

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their performance included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.