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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

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

The Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “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, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

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

Final Impressions

Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.