"Sinners Night": Clarissa Taylor's Juke Joint Experience Celebrates Southern Roots
Clarissa Taylor, the visionary and creator of The Blk Out, joined guest host of “The Day With Trae” Deaunte Damper this week to share about the organization’s purpose and upcoming “Sinners Night” this Friday, themed after the 2025 critically acclaimed movie. Taylor's path in the beauty industry eventually led her to a powerful calling: creating spaces where Black and brown individuals can truly belong and thrive.
Taylor defined The Blk Out as a movement that combines Black joy and community, creating unforgettable experiences that feel like culture and family reunions. The inception of her vision began with Taylor’s desire to participate in Kwanzaa, which inspired her to create events that uplift the core spirit and values of the celebration. The name "Blk Out" reflects her mission: an unapologetic declaration of the Black community's presence and significance.
Taylor discussed her experience as an entrepreneur and how it taught her the importance of thorough planning. She advised aspiring creators to "take your time, map it out, and really work out a plan," emphasizing that a well-thought-out strategy leads to smoother execution and helps avoid unnecessary hurdles.
Taylor powerfully articulates the vital need for spaces that prioritize Black and brown people, especially given historical exclusion from other venues like churches, schools, and restaurants. She believes that in a world where everyone often feels entitled to their space, there's a critical need for places that unapologetically declare, "this is for us." These safe spaces, like events hosted by The Blk Out, are designed to foster strong bonds and connections, addressing what Taylor sees as a current lack of genuine communal engagement. She connected this to the Kwanzaa principle of Umoja (unity), which, for her, means gathering in one's "most authentic form," free from external worries, and expressing oneself from the spirit.
Looking ahead, Taylor is excited about the upcoming "Sinners Night," a juke joint experience hosted in partnership with Black & Tan Hall. This event promises a "down-home country party vibe," celebrating Southern roots with catfish, a soulful singer, a DJ, and specialty drinks, including moonshine and custom-named cocktails. Taylor aims to create a space where attendees can feel truly free and in the moment with their community, unburdened by outside concerns.
Sinners Night is on Friday, October 3, doors opening at 8:00 PM. Attendees can find more information on Instagram @the.blkout and Facebook @TheBlk Out.
