RnB Xmas Ball - Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, Joe, Dru Hill

RnB Xmas Ball: A Night of Unforgettable Soul at Co-op Live

Get ready to sleigh this festive season as Co-op Live in Manchester presents the ultimate R&B celebration: the RnB Xmas Ball. On Sunday, 14 December 2025, prepare for an evening of pure vocal brilliance and timeless hits as four of the genre’s most iconic acts – Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, Joe, and Dru Hill – unite on one stage. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a journey through the golden age of R&B, a chance to relive cherished memories and create new ones with these legendary performers. The RnB Xmas Ball promises a night steeped in soulful melodies, heartwarming harmonies, and the infectious energy that only these artists can deliver, making it the must-attend event of Manchester’s Christmas calendar.

About RnB Xmas Ball - Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, Joe, Dru Hill

This star-studded lineup represents the pinnacle of R&B royalty, each bringing a distinguished career and a catalogue of songs that have defined generations.

Boyz II Men stand as one of the most commercially successful R&B groups of all time, renowned for their smooth harmonies, intricate vocal arrangements, and heartfelt ballads. Emerging in the early 1990s, they quickly dominated the charts with a string of unforgettable hits that cemented their status as global superstars. Their debut album, Cooleyhighharmony, featured timeless classics like “Motownphilly” and “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday,” showcasing their incredible vocal prowess. They continued their reign with anthems such as “End of the Road,” which spent a record-breaking 13 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, followed by equally successful singles like “I’ll Make Love to You” and “Water Runs Dry.” Their ability to blend romantic sincerity with sophisticated vocal layering has earned them numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards, and a lasting legacy as masters of the vocal harmony. Their live performances are a testament to their enduring talent, always delivering a powerful and moving experience.

Toni Braxton is a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and actress whose sultry voice and undeniable stage presence have made her an enduring icon of R&B. Her career exploded in the early 1990s with her self-titled debut album, which spawned the GRAMMY-winning hit “Un-Break My Heart.” This power ballad became a global phenomenon, showcasing Braxton’s signature blend of vulnerability and strength. Throughout her career, she has consistently delivered sophisticated and emotionally resonant music, with other notable hits including the seductive “Breathe Again,” the smooth “You Mean the World to Me,” and the poignant “Spanish Guitar.” Braxton is celebrated for her distinctive vocal tone, her elegant style, and her ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Her influence on contemporary R&B is undeniable, and her live performances are always a captivating display of her artistry and charisma.

Joe, born Joe Thomas, is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer who has been a consistent force in R&B for decades. Known for his smooth vocal delivery, masterful songwriting, and soulful delivery, Joe has crafted a career filled with chart-topping hits and critical acclaim. He rose to prominence in the mid-1990s with his hit single “I Wanna Know,” a romantic ballad that showcased his impressive vocal range and heartfelt passion. Other signature songs include the infectious “Stutter,” the smooth and sultry “Don’t Wanna Be a Player,” and the heartfelt “All the Things (Your Man Won’t Do).” Joe is also a sought-after songwriter and producer, having collaborated with numerous artists, further solidifying his impact on the R&B landscape. His live performances are characterized by their raw emotion, engaging stage presence, and an undeniable connection with his audience.

Dru Hill, the Baltimore-based vocal group, burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s, captivating audiences with their unique blend of soulful vocals, hip-hop influences, and charismatic stage presence. Led by the powerful vocals of Sisqó, the group quickly garnered widespread attention with their debut single “Tell Me” and the smash hit “In My Bed,” showcasing their signature harmonies and infectious energy. They followed up with a string of successful tracks, including the chart-topping ballad “How Deep Is Your Love” and the upbeat “The Thong Song” (featuring Sisqó’s solo success), which became a cultural phenomenon. Dru Hill’s ability to deliver both heartfelt ballads and dynamic, energetic performances has made them a beloved act. Their live shows are known for their impressive vocal arrangements, their engaging choreography, and their ability to create a vibrant and exciting atmosphere.

Together, these four acts represent a formidable force in R&B, promising a night of unparalleled musical excellence at the RnB Xmas Ball.

Venue Information

Co-op Live is Manchester’s premier entertainment destination, a state-of-the-art arena designed to provide an unparalleled live experience for both artists and fans. Located conveniently within the city, it boasts world-class acoustics and a stunning modern design, ensuring that every event held within its walls is a memorable occasion. With a capacity designed for an intimate yet grand atmosphere, Co-op Live is equipped with cutting-edge technology to deliver spectacular visuals and immersive sound, making it the perfect setting for a night of soulful R&B performances.

For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

The RnB Xmas Ball at Co-op Live is set to be an unforgettable evening, a true celebration of soul and festive cheer. Each artist will deliver a captivating set, showcasing their most beloved hits and reminding audiences why they remain at the forefront of the R&B world. Expect Boyz II Men to weave their signature intricate harmonies through classics like “Motownphilly,” “End of the Road,” and “I’ll Make Love to You,” their voices as powerful and emotive as ever. Toni Braxton will undoubtedly enchant the audience with her sultry delivery of “Un-Break My Heart,” “Breathe Again,” and other timeless anthems, her stage presence as captivating as her voice. Joe will bring his signature soulful warmth, performing fan favourites such as “I Wanna Know” and “Stutter,” connecting with the audience on a deeply personal level. Dru Hill will inject energy and rhythm into the night with their dynamic performance, treating the crowd to hits like “Tell Me,” “In My Bed,” and perhaps even a taste of Sisqó’s solo magic.

The performance style throughout the evening will be a masterclass in R&B artistry. Each act will likely bring their distinct flavour, from the smooth vocal tapestries of Boyz II Men to Toni Braxton’s captivating allure, Joe’s heartfelt delivery, and Dru Hill’s energetic stagecraft. Audiences can anticipate seamless transitions between artists, with each performance building upon the soulful atmosphere of the night. While specific setlists are subject to the artists’ final decisions, the emphasis will undoubtedly be on their most iconic and well-loved songs, ensuring that every attendee hears the tracks that have soundtracked their lives. The overall duration of the event, including artist sets and intermissions, is expected to be around 3-4 hours, providing ample time for each legendary act to shine and for the festive spirit to take hold. Prepare for an evening filled with singalongs, heartfelt moments, and the pure joy of experiencing R&B at its finest.

FAQs

Q1: Will Boyz II Men be performing “Motownphilly”? Absolutely! Boyz II Men are renowned for their iconic hits, and “Motownphilly” is a staple of their live shows. You can expect to hear this energetic anthem that kicked off their incredible career.

Q2: Can I expect Toni Braxton to perform “Un-Break My Heart”? Yes, “Un-Break My Heart” is one of Toni Braxton’s signature songs and a global phenomenon. It’s a must-have in her setlist, and audiences can anticipate a powerful and emotional rendition.

Q3: What kind of songs will Joe be singing? Joe is known for his smooth R&B ballads and mid-tempo grooves. You can expect to hear his most popular hits like “I Wanna Know,” “Stutter,” and “Don’t Wanna Be a Player,” showcasing his soulful vocal talent.

Q4: Will Sisqó perform solo hits like “The Thong Song” during Dru Hill’s set? While Dru Hill’s set will focus on their group hits, it’s not uncommon for members to showcase individual talents. There’s a strong possibility that elements of Sisqó’s successful solo work, such as “The Thong Song,” might be incorporated into the performance, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Q5: Are there any opportunities for meet-and-greets with the artists? Information regarding meet-and-greets is typically released closer to the event date. Please keep an eye on the official event and venue pages for any announcements about VIP packages or exclusive opportunities.

Q6: Will there be a specific order for the artists’ performances? The running order for the artists will be confirmed closer to the event date. Each artist is a headliner in their own right, and the final lineup will be designed to create the best possible flow and experience for the audience.