🔗 Share this article Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Review: A Emotional Trip Back to the 90s This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B. Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts. Toni Braxton's Powerful Set The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success. Then, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly. Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment. Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, 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 Cheer Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Impressions While the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.