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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Moving Performance

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

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

Their performance included covers of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions 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.

Final Thoughts

While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.