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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

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

The Powerful Performance

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.