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This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the main acts.

Toni Braxton's Moving Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished 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 matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.

Their performance included covers of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Cheer

Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

While the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.