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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing 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 opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt moment. “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 command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their live band.

Their set included covers of influences, 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 Cheer

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

Final Impressions

While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.