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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo 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 concert embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's production had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.