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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.

The Powerful Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live 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 declared sincerely.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

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 breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

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

A Touch of Christmas Cheer

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

Overall Thoughts

Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.