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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's production had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.