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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, 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 single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert embraced 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 Impressions

Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.