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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

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

Final Thoughts

While the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.