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This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.

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

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

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