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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Performance

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set included covers of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.