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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned 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 peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage 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 declared sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.