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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their performance included covers of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the concert embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.