Patton was born in Los Angeles California to Joyce nee Vanraden a school teacher and Charles Patton a lawyer. Her mother is
of German and Dutch descent and her father is African American.

She graduated from Alexander Hamilton High School and then started college at University of California Berkeley  transferring 
to University of Southern Californias Film School after her first year. Shortly after completing her studies she won a three
month assignment making documentaries for PBS.

Patton provided additional vocals for Usher on his 2004 album Confessions. She provided the female vocal counterpart on the song 
Can U Handle It which was co-written by Robin Thicke whom she would later marry. Patton has song writing credits on multiple Robin
Thicke albums under the name Max derived from her middle name Maxine.

Patton made her film debut with a small part in the 2005 romantic
comedy film Hitch alongside Will Smith.In the same year she followed that with a small part in the drama film London. In 2006 she 
appeared alongside OutKast members Andre Benjamin and Big Boi in the musical film Idlewild written and directed by Bryan Barber.