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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.

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

Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Christmas Spirit

Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.