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The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers renowned for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.

Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.

Then, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters

Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Touch of Holiday Cheer

Towards the end, the concert turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Thoughts

While the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.