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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional performance. “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 command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.