Biography
Who is Mike Patton?
Early life and education
Mike Patton was born in Eureka, California, on January 27, 1968. His family lived in San Jose during his early years before returning permanently to Eureka, where he grew up as a sports enthusiast and good student. In elementary school, he escaped his academic focus by watching films, with the Star Wars soundtrack leaving a lasting impact on him.
He attended Eureka High School and met future bandmates Trevor Dunn and Trey Spruance through music classes and record trading. The group played in various cover and extreme metal bands before establishing Mr. Bungle in 1984. Patton later enrolled at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, to study English literature with plans of becoming a writer.
Faith No More career
In 1988, Faith No More approached Mike to audition as their lead singer after remembering a demo tape by Mr. Bungle. He officially joined the band in January 1989, which forced him to quit his studies at Humboldt State University. His arrival marked a major turning point for the group as they prepared their third studio album.
The Real Thing was released in 1989 and reached the top twenty on United States charts, driven by heavy MTV rotation for the track Epic. Mike recorded three additional studio albums with the group before their initial disbandment in 1998. He reunited with Faith No More for subsequent tours and new releases, including the 2015 album Sol Invictus, before the band entered further hiatus periods.
Solo work and band projects
Alongside his work with Faith No More, Mike continued releasing music with Mr. Bungle, securing a record deal that led to their self-titled album in 1991, Disco Volante in 1995, and California in 1999. His expansive career also included fronting groups such as Tomahawk, Fantômas, Dead Cross, and Mondo Cane, working across genres like alternative metal, avant-garde, and jazz.
In 1999, Mike co-founded Ipecac Recordings alongside Greg Werckman to champion non-mainstream music. He has also worked extensively as a producer and collaborated with numerous avant-garde artists throughout his career.
Birthday and age
Mike Patton was born on January 27, 1968, which makes Mike 58 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. Mike shares the date with 60 other famous people.
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