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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience'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 coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the concert embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.