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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a live band appeared anchored 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 sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured covers of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

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

Final Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.