Black Love Unfiltered

Black singles are pushing boundaries, redefining relationships, and embracing modern dating with a boldness that challenges traditional norms. BLK, the leading social and dating app for Black singles, has unveiled its inaugural State of Black Singles 2025 report.

Breaking Taboos: Black Singles and Sexual Exploration

One of the most striking revelations in the report is the increasing openness toward sexual exploration. Nearly 40% of Black singles admit to engaging in group play, while another 30.2% are curious about it. Additionally, 88% consider oral sex a must-have in relationships, highlighting a shift toward more open discussions around pleasure and intimacy. While these numbers signal a growing acceptance of sexual exploration, the report also notes that some taboos remain firmly in place.

“The idea of ‘taboo’ is fading,” said Jonathan Kirkland, Head of Brand and Marketing at BLK. “Black singles are owning their pleasure, exploring new experiences, and challenging outdated stigmas.”

Social Media: The New Dating Playground

The influence of social media on dating continues to grow, with 17% of Black singles using their DMs like a dating app. Twitter/X (8.3%) and TikTok (16.1%) are emerging as platforms where Black singles are finding romantic connections. However, the digital dating landscape isn’t without its challenges—61% cite catfishing as a major concern, while 38.2% believe Gen Z overshares too much about relationships online.

Redefining Relationships: Tradition vs. Modern Love

Many Black singles are blending old-school values with modern expectations. 29.9% prefer traditional gender roles, while nearly 50% favor a mix of traditional and progressive values. Meanwhile, 28% are open to polyamory, yet 41.7% remain strictly monogamous. And while marriage remains a goal for some, 33.5% say they have no interest in having children.

Representation Matters: The Struggle for Visibility

Despite the evolving dating landscape, Black singles still face a lack of representation. Only 25.7% feel fully seen on mainstream dating apps, and 30.3% believe mainstream media fails to showcase authentic Black love. Furthermore, 21.8% admit to code-switching in dating spaces, emphasizing the ongoing challenge of navigating romance while maintaining cultural authenticity.

The Future of Black Love: Unapologetically Bold

The State of Black Singles 2025 report solidifies one thing: Black singles are rewriting the dating playbook. Whether embracing open relationships, leveraging social media for connections, or challenging mainstream dating norms, Black singles are taking control of their love lives—on their own terms.

For a deeper dive into the full report, visit The State of Black Singles.