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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For 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, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

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, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured covers of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.