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The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.

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

Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured covers of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Overall Impressions

While the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.