🔗 Share this article

The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

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

However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

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

Their set included covers of inspirations, including 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 embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.