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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Moving Performance

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their performance featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.