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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live 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.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their performance included interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the evening's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.