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The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

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

Their set included covers of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of anthems 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 sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.