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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period 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. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their set included interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.