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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on 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-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their performance included interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo 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 concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.