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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.

However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on 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 awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.