š Share this article R&B Xmas Ball Recap: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s The second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional 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 playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts. The Powerful Performance The opening of Burna Boyās Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasnāt Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak success. However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. āFor as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,ā she declared earnestly. Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart. The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos Taking the stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band. Their set included covers of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Marsās Locked Out of Heaven. A Touch of Christmas Cheer Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, Iāll Make Love To You, and End of the Road. Final Impressions While the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.