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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.