🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B. Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts. The Powerful Performance The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame. Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly. Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment. Their set included covers of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Christmas Spirit Finally, the evening embraced the holiday theme 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 production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.