🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Review: An Emotional Journey Returning to the 90s This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B. Starting Acts: Classic Vibes The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists. Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest fame. Then, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely. Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment. Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Spirit Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Thoughts Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.