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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured covers of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

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

Overall Impressions

While the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.