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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

The Moving Set

The beginning 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 rooted in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.

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

A Touch of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.