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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, 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 gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.