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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak fame.

However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured covers of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks 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 show concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.