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The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

The Moving Set

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak success.

Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured covers of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the evening turned to 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

Although the night's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.