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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured covers of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

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

Overall Thoughts

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