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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

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

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.

However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the concert embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong 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 sense at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.