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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest fame.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For 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, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured covers of inspirations, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.