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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

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

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The opening 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 seemed anchored in the time period of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

Although the night's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.