š Share this article R&B Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B. Starting Acts: Classic Feelings The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts. Toni Braxton's Powerful Set The opening of Burna Boyās Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasnāt Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame. However, 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 heartfelt moment. āAs long as I live, I will never forget tonight,ā she stated earnestly. Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment. Their set featured covers of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Marsās Locked Out of Heaven. A Dash of Christmas Spirit Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, Iāll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Overall Impressions Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than snow.