Michael John Burkett, popularly known by his stage name Fat Mike is a well-known name in the music world. Known for his contribution to punk rock, he has made a lasting impact in the industry.
Aside from being the lead vocalist and bassist of NOFX, he is also the co-founder and bassist of the punk rock cover band Me First and the Gimme Gimmes. Over the years, he has expanded his skill set to become a producer, and record label founder. If you are eager to know more about Fat Mike and his journey in the punk rock world, you should give this post a read.
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Early Life
Fat Mike was born on 16th January 1967, in Newton, Massachusetts. Growing up, music became an important part of his life as he discovered punk rock in his teenage years and became passionate about it. As per his statement, it was Joe Escalante of the Vandals, who exposed him to punk rock at a summer camp.
As far as his education is concerned, Fat Mike attended San Francisco State University, where he studied social science and completed his graduation in 1990. Before that, he completed his schooling from Beverly Hills High School.
Beginning of Career
Fat Mike’s music journey began while he was still in school. During that time, he was a member of False Alarm, his first band. Although the band didn’t survive long and split in 1983, it helped him gain a lot of experience.
He later formed NOFX along with Eric Melvin. However, the band had a rough start and struggled to gain attention in its early years. But with Mike’s unique vocals and engaging lyrics, the band slowly started to rise to fame. He and guitarist Eric Melvin were the only members consistent in NOFX.
Shot to Fame
Fat Mike rose to fame with NOFX in the 1990s. Dropping albums like Punk in Drublic and So Long and Thanks for All the Shoes turned them into one of the biggest names in punk rock.
Aside from NOFX, Mike co-founded Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, a punk rock supergroup that covers famous songs from different genres. He also founded an independent record label Fat Wreck Chords in 1990 that supported many punk bands build their career.
Relationship
Fat Mike has been open about his personal life. He was married to Erin Burkett, with whom he had a daughter. However, the two ended their marriage in 2010, after being together for 18 years. Currently, he is married to Soma Snakeoil, with who he had eloped on New Year’s Eve.
Major Source of Income and Net Worth
Based on the latest reports, Fat Mike’s net worth is approx. $5 million. Over the years, he has built a strong career and earned a steady income. His main source of revenue comes from album sales, touring, and streaming royalties.
Additionally, he generates a good amount through his record label Fat Wreck Chords. The label has released albums for several successful punk bands, generating a decent profit. Besides that, he has made money from side projects like Me First and the Gimme Gimmes.
