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The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Moving Set

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale 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 experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.