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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their holiday records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Moving Set

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

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set included interpretations 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 Dash of Holiday Cheer

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

Final Impressions

While the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.