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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

The Moving Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “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 crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their performance featured 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 turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.