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This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.

However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony 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, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

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

Overall Thoughts

While the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.