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The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

The Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her greatest success.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles 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 emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

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

Final Impressions

While the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.