🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Review: A Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B. Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main acts. 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 legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame. However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely. Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment. Their set featured covers of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Christmas Spirit Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Thoughts While the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.