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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

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

Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began 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 live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas 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

While the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.