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

Opening Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest fame.

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 solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the 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 awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.