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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

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

The Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the holiday mood 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 Impressions

Although the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.