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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply 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 finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

Although the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.