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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music 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 artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their set included interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.