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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave 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, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.