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This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted 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 on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.