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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

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

Overall Impressions

Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.