June 6th 2024.
New Orleans is known for its vibrant Black music and culture, and one native, Curtis Doucette Jr., has been deeply involved in both for many years. As a real estate developer in his hometown, Doucette has always been drawn to the history and energy of the city. His latest project, revitalizing the legendary Dew Drop Inn, has not only allowed him to make a significant impact on his community, but also to reconnect with his roots.
In March 2024, after years of hard work and dedication, Doucette and his team successfully reopened the Dew Drop Inn for the first time since 1972. It was a proud moment for Doucette, who had only learned about the cultural landmark five years prior, despite growing up in New Orleans. Despite being immersed in the city's culture, he hadn't yet discovered the Dew Drop Inn, a place that would ultimately shape the course of his real estate career.
Raised in Tremé, a historically Black neighborhood, Doucette fondly remembers being a "mere participant" in iconic events like Mardi Gras and the famous "second line." However, it wasn't until later in life that he truly began to appreciate the rich culture that surrounded him. This newfound appreciation fueled his passion for real estate and drove him to pursue his dream of owning multifamily apartments as a profitable investment.
Starting his journey at just 26 years old with a modest annual salary, Doucette was determined to become more than just a small investor. He saw himself as a business owner and worked tirelessly to achieve his goals. With several successful projects under his belt, Doucette was living his version of the American Dream. However, it was a chance encounter with a developer in 2019 that would ultimately lead him to the Dew Drop Inn and change his life forever.
Initially hesitant to take on such a significant project, Doucette was ultimately intrigued enough to visit the property and explore its potential. Little did he know, he was about to uncover a hidden gem rich in history and cultural significance. From 1939 to 1972, the Dew Drop Inn was a hub of rock 'n' roll, hosting legendary performers like James Brown and Aretha Franklin. Created by entrepreneur Frank Painia, the venue started as a barbershop and bar before evolving into a nightclub that was listed in The Negro Motorist Green Book during the Jim Crow era. Sadly, it closed in 1972 after Painia's death, and its legacy was all but forgotten.
None of this history was known to Doucette before being approached for the project. "If I had heard of it, it didn't stick," he admitted. However, during his first visit to the Dew Drop Inn, he had the opportunity to meet Kenneth Jackson, Painia's grandson. It was then that Doucette discovered his uncle had once lived at the Dew Drop Inn as a drummer. This discovery only further fueled his determination to bring the venue back to life.
Five years later, Doucette achieved what no other developer had before - he successfully reopened the Dew Drop Inn as the only Black-owned hotel in New Orleans. The renovated property boasts 17 rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and an adjacent bar and restaurant. The original barbershop has been transformed into a museum, featuring one of the original chairs from its early days. For Doucette, seeing his dream become a reality was a moment he will never forget. "Things came to fruition how I had envisioned them, and in many cases better than I had envisioned," he shared.
However, the road to success was not without its challenges. As a first-time sole developer, financing the $11 million project was no easy feat. Doucette relied on the sales of some properties, assistance from family and friends, and an investment from Painia's grandson, who became a limited partner. He also received support from an unnamed famous musician, who believed in his vision for the Dew Drop Inn. Despite the obstacles, Doucette never wavered in his determination. "It was just not taking no for an answer and always believing there was a way to make it work," he said.
Looking to the future, Doucette envisions the Dew Drop Inn reclaiming its throne as the hub for musical discovery. He hopes that the venue will serve as a platform for new and emerging artists to showcase their talents and that it will continue to shape the city's rich music scene. "If I could live my dream further through this project, there will be new genres of music that people are talking about 50 to 100 years from now," said Doucette. "Genres that started with people who performed at the Dew Drop Inn."
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