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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

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 backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live 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 command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits 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 included covers of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended 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 production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.