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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Feelings

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their set featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the evening embraced the holiday mood with renditions 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

Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.