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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, 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 set included interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

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

Overall Impressions

While the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.