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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

While the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.