i have black hair too and reccently decided to go lighter (to an auburn shade)

i've tried semi permanent colors before, and they just really don't take. when you go in the sun you get like a "highlights" effect and thats about it...

is your hair naturally black or dyed black?

if its dyed its going to be a little more complicated to strip your hair of color and the dyeing...and more damaging to your hair.

if its natural, you might be surprised how easily they can bleach it a few shades (just until its slightly lighter, not white, so its not that damaging) and then give you the brown shade you want.

good luck, and really, in my experience, if its something you really want to do, take the leap! you're gonna love it.