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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

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

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.