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This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.

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 gave a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

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

Overall Impressions

Although the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.