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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

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

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

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

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

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong 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 production had some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.