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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise 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 Spirit

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

Final Impressions

Although the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.