🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B. Opening Performances: Classic Vibes Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists. Toni Braxton's Powerful Set The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest success. However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke 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 profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly. Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band. Their set included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Spirit Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Impressions While the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.