🔗 Share this article R&B Christmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B. Opening Acts: Classic Vibes The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the main artists. The Powerful Set The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her peak fame. Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly. Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive 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 Touch of Christmas Spirit Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Impressions Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.