Who Is Baxter Neal Helson? Meet Tish Cyrus’s First Husband and Musician Dad

Baxter Neal Helson is a name many people don’t know, but he played an important role in the famous Cyrus family. He is best known as the first husband of Tish Cyrus and the father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus. Even though he lives a quiet life away from the spotlight, his story is full of music, family, and love.
In this article, we will discover who Baxter Neal Helson really is, learn about his early life, his marriage to Tish Cyrus, and how he inspired his children’s love for music. We will also find out where he is now and how he lives today. If you want to know more about the man behind the scenes of the Cyrus family, keep reading!
Quick Stats
Personal Details | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Baxter Neal Helson |
Date of Birth | December 1966 |
Age | 59 years (as of 2025) |
Place of Birth | Ashland, Kentucky, USA |
Ex-Wife | Tish Cyrus (1986–1989) |
Children | Brandi Cyrus, Trace Cyrus |
Profession | Drummer |
Current Residence | Phoenix, Arizona, USA |
Net Worth | $500,000 – $1 million |
Early Life and Background
Baxter Neal Helson was born in December 1966 in Ashland, Kentucky, a small town where community and family are very important. While there isn’t much public information about his parents or siblings, what we do know is that Baxter’s early years were deeply connected to music. From a young age, he developed a strong passion for drumming, spending hours practicing and playing at local events. This love for music would shape much of his future. Growing up in a quiet town gave him a simple but meaningful childhood centered around family and music.
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Age and What Baxter Neal Helson Looks Like
Baxter Neal Helson was born in December 1966, which makes him 59 years old in 2025. He has a casual and down-to-earth style that fits his quiet life away from fame. While there aren’t many recent photos of him available publicly, Baxter is often seen with a friendly smile and simple clothing, reflecting his laid-back personality. He keeps a low profile and prefers to live comfortably without the spotlight on his appearance.
Baxter Neal Helson’s Love for Music and Career as a Drummer
Music was more than just a hobby for Baxter Neal Helson—it was a big part of who he was. He began playing drums when he was very young, learning by practicing for hours and playing at small gigs around his hometown. Baxter was never interested in becoming famous; instead, he focused on perfecting his craft and enjoying the rhythms he created. His drumming style was admired by people in his community, and he played in local bands and bars where he was respected as a talented musician. Although he never sought the big stage, music gave him purpose and joy throughout his life.
How Baxter Neal Helson Met Tish Cyrus
Baxter met Tish Cyrus when they were teenagers growing up in Kentucky. Both came from small-town backgrounds, which helped them bond quickly. They first met at a party, and their friendship grew fast because they shared many of the same values and dreams. Their young love soon led to marriage when Baxter was 19 and Tish was 18, marking the start of their life together. Their story reflects the excitement and hope of young love, even if their journey as a couple would later face challenges.
Marriage to Tish Cyrus and Family Life
Baxter and Tish got married in 1986, full of hopes and dreams for the future. Soon after, they started building their family, welcoming their first child, Brandi, in 1987, and their son, Trace, in 1989. Raising children at such a young age was not easy for them. They faced the difficult task of balancing parenting with their own personal goals. After three years, the pressure and challenges led them to divorce in 1989. Despite the end of their marriage, Baxter and Tish remained connected through their children, continuing to co-parent and support them.
Who Is Tish Cyrus?
Tish Cyrus, born Leticia Jean Finley, is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, widely recognized as the mother of pop superstar Miley Cyrus. She first married Baxter Neal Helson, with whom she had two children, Brandi and Trace Cyrus, before later marrying country singer Billy Ray Cyrus in 1993. Tish has played a crucial role in shaping the careers of her children, especially Miley, helping guide her rise to fame from a young age. Beyond her family life, Tish is also an accomplished producer, working on various television shows and films.
Over the years, she has built a reputation as a strong and supportive matriarch who balances her roles as a mother, wife, and professional in the entertainment world. Her influence extends beyond just her family, making her a respected figure in Hollywood.
Baxter Neal Helson as a Father
Even after his divorce from Tish, Baxter Neal Helson remained a devoted and caring father to Brandi and Trace. His love for music deeply influenced both children, inspiring Brandi to become a DJ and television host, and Trace to pursue a career as a musician in the band Metro Station. Baxter’s encouragement and example showed his children the importance of following their passions. Though he kept a low public profile, his role as a father was strong, providing love, guidance, and support during their early years and beyond.
Life After Divorce
Following his divorce from Tish Cyrus, Baxter took a different path from the rest of the family. Tish later married Billy Ray Cyrus in 1993, who adopted Brandi and Trace and helped raise them in the public eye. Meanwhile, Baxter moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he chose a quieter lifestyle. Away from fame and media attention, he focused on his music, personal growth, and hobbies like photography. His life after divorce reflects a conscious decision to step back from the spotlight and live more privately, while still nurturing his love for music and family.
Baxter Neal Helson’s Life Today
Today, Baxter Neal Helson leads a peaceful and private life in Phoenix, Arizona. He has stayed out of the public eye and enjoys simple pleasures such as photography and traveling. His lifestyle contrasts greatly with the fame and busy schedules of the rest of the Cyrus family. Despite living away from Hollywood, Baxter remains connected to his roots and passions. His quiet life shows that happiness can come from focusing on what truly matters to an individual, whether it is music, family, or personal hobbies.
Baxter Neal Helson’s Net Worth
Baxter Neal Helson’s net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million. This reflects a steady, long-term career as a professional drummer and musician. While he did not seek or achieve the high-profile success of his ex-wife or children, Baxter has built a comfortable and stable life through his dedication to music and other personal interests. His financial situation shows that success doesn’t always come from fame but can be found in following one’s passions and living a grounded life.
Baxter Neal Helson’s Legacy in the Cyrus Family
Though Baxter Neal Helson may not be widely known, his impact on the Cyrus family is significant. His passion for music helped plant the seeds of creativity and love for the arts in his children, Brandi and Trace, who have gone on to successful careers in entertainment. His story reminds us that sometimes, the most important contributions come from those who work quietly behind the scenes. Baxter’s legacy is one of dedication, love, and inspiring others without needing the spotlight.
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Conclusion
Baxter Neal Helson’s life may be quiet compared to the fame of the Cyrus family, but his story is just as important. As a passionate musician and devoted father, he played a key role in shaping the lives and careers of his children. His journey shows that influence and love don’t always need to be in the spotlight to make a lasting difference. Baxter’s legacy reminds us to appreciate those who inspire and support from behind the scenes.
FAQs About Baxter Neal Helson
1. Who is Baxter Neal Helson?
Baxter Neal Helson is a professional drummer and the first husband of Tish Cyrus. He is also the biological father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus.
2. How old is Baxter Neal Helson?
Baxter Neal Helson was born in December 1966, making him 59 years old in 2025.
3. Who are the children of Baxter Neal Helson?
His children are Brandi Cyrus, a DJ and TV host, and Trace Cyrus, a musician known for his work with the band Metro Station.
4. When did Baxter Neal Helson and Tish Cyrus get married?
They got married in 1986 when they were teenagers, but divorced three years later in 1989.
5. Does Baxter Neal Helson still work in music?
Yes, Baxter continues to play drums and is passionate about music, although he lives a quieter life away from the public eye.
6. Where does Baxter Neal Helson live now?
He currently lives a private life in Phoenix, Arizona.
7. Did Baxter Neal Helson remarry after divorcing Tish Cyrus?
There is no public information confirming that Baxter remarried after his divorce.
8. What is Baxter Neal Helson’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $1 million, earned through his music career and other interests.