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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Performance

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 rooted in the time period of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight 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

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.