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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Feelings

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

The Moving Set

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

However, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

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

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

A Touch of Holiday Spirit

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

Final Impressions

While the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.