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The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest success.

However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with performances 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.

Overall Impressions

Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.