Michael Plata was born in San Benito, Texas in 1980. He spent his entire youth in the neighboring city of Harlingen. He attended Harlingen High School South where his abilities as a musician were noticed and encouraged by the music department staff. He performed in front of large crowds since the age of 11 and became a featured soloist. Michael's other interests included radio, television and film in high school. He became the lead video editor for the school's TV and radio station, KSHS.After high school, Michael moved to Austin to attend school at the University of Texas. He taught himself to play drums. Mike began playing music along with friend and former roommate Ruben Anchondo. Michael, Ruben and two others would eventually form the band Ghost of the Russian Empire. They gained popularity and released a 6 song EP entitled 'With Fiercest Demolition' in 2006. In 2008 Ghost of the Russian Empire released their full length album 'Mammoth' and a video for "A Decade Without A Death."In 2013, Michael had a speaking role on 'My Crazy Obsession'. In 2014, Michael worked as a background actor for the television shows 'From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series' and 'Revolution'. Michael also worked as a coach and bar patron in Jason Reitman's film 'Men, Women & Children.'