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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.

The Moving Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform 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 stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.