🔗 Share this article R&B Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the Nineties The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B. Opening Acts: Classic Feelings Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts. Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest fame. However, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely. Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment. Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Holiday Cheer Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Thoughts Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.