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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, 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 tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set included interpretations of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.