đ Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B. Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists. Toni Braxton's Moving Set The beginning of Burna Boyâs Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasnât Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success. However, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. âAs long as I live, I will never forget tonight,â she declared sincerely. Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band. Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Marsâs Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Cheer Finally, the concert turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, Iâll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Thoughts While the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.