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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

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

The Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

However, nine songs 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 gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the concert embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.