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This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Classic Vibes

Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success.

Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt 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, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

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

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

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

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

Overall Impressions

Although the evening's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.