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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 carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Powerful Performance

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

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

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

Overall Impressions

Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.