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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Classic Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke 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 profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

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

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

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

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to 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.

Final Thoughts

While the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.