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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed rooted 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 sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

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

Their performance featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.