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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “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, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

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

Their performance included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

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

Final Thoughts

Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.