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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.