🔗 Share this article R&B Xmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B. Opening Performances: Classic Vibes Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists. Toni Braxton's Moving Performance The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success. Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely. Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated 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 tight and reactive to their live band. Their set featured interpretations of influences, including 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 concert turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Thoughts Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.