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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Performance

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success.

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the concert embraced the holiday mood with performances 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.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.