🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Recap: An Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B. Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists. The Moving Performance The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest fame. However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely. Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment. Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Holiday Cheer Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Impressions Although the evening's production had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.