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This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success.

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

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured covers 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 Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.