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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned 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 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 solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance 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 evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.