Blakdyak

Joey Amoto Formaran, known professionally as Blakdyak was a Filipino actor, comedian and reggae singer. He was known as "The King of Pinoy Reggae".

Early life

Blakdyak was born on July 25, 1969, in Olongapo, Zambales. His Jamaican-American father was a serviceman who was stationed at the U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay in Olongapo.

Career

Blakdyak started singing in high school in Castillejos, Zambales. He began to earn money from singing when some comedian-performers included him in their shows performing in provinces. He soon migrated to Manila and formed his own band. In 1997, Viva Records discovered him and immediately signed him up to record an album.
With his hit singles "Good Boy" and "Noon at Ngayon", Blakdyak became the first local solo reggae act to achieve success in the entertainment field.
Blakdyak received his first Platinum Record Award for his first album Noon at Ngayon. At the 1998 Awit Awards, he won the award for Best Novelty Act and Best New Male Performer.

Death

Blakdyak was found dead inside his condominium unit in Sampaloc, Manila on November 21, 2016. His head was covered with a plastic bag, but the circumstances leading to his death are unclear. The Manila Police District said there were no evidence of forced entry. However, some of the late singer's possessions were found scattered on the unit's floor. A funeral service was held the following days before his cremation on Sunday.

Personal life

He was married to non-showbiz wife Twinkle Estanislao-Formaran, with whom he had four children - Tomie Formaran, Kent Formaran, Twijoenah Formaran, and Jam Formaran.