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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.

However, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

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

Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as 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 concert embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.