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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

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

However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt 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 grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

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

Final Thoughts

While the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.