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Baxter Neal Helson Biography: The Drummer Who Started the Cyrus Family Story

— Baxter Neal Helson's legacy lacks the hallmark of celebrity and the grandeur of fame, but is marked by a quieter force that anchors his life over time.
By Emily WilsonPUBLISHED: October 21, 10:15UPDATED: October 22, 20:24 6160
Baxter Neal Helson, American drummer and biological father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus

Among the several influential names behind the scenes, Baxter Neal Helson grabs immense attention in this star-studded domain of popular media. The role played by Baxter in the foundational tale of the House of Cyrus is crucial, adding depth into the broader narrative that rounds out the story of one of entertainment's most iconic families. However, he is popularly known as Tish Cyrus’ first husband and Brandi and Trace Cyru’s biological father. 

Who is Baxter Neal Helson? Early life & Musical Roots

Baxter Neal Helson was born in the United States, on January 21, 1966. The town where Baxter was reportedly born, Ashland, Kentucky, was a region rooted in a rich tradition of music. His passion for drums and percussion drew him to creative alliances with local bands and Baxter made his presence through local stage performances in private and small events. He loved the role of a drummer, shaping sound from the shadows, rather than being in the spotlight. Hence, he was never a famous artist rather a musician who led a quieter path. His interest in providing background support with his drums reveals his  humility and community driven collaboration, which stands as a subtle contribution to Cyrus family’s legacy. 

Who is Tish Cyrus’ First Husband? Baxter’s Marriage With Tish Cyrus and Fathering Brandi and Trace 

Based on multiple sources, Baxter became Tish Cyrus’ first husband in 1986, when Helson met Tish, then known as Leticia Finley. Their marriage welcomed Brandi Cyrus, born on May 26, 1987 and Trace Cyrus, who was initially named as Neil Timothy Helson, born on February 24, 1989.  Being the biological father of Trace Cyrus and Brandi Cyrus, Helson decided to travel beyond music, devoting himself into roles of husband and father, bringing emotional reference to life which he successfully brought into his musical performances. 

Divorce, Custody and Legal Chapters

In the 1980s, after separation from Tish Cyrus, it was a more baxter helson private life, which occurred even before the family rose to fame. This eventually led to custody battles which in turn would steer the course of the children’s lives. Questions were raised on forced visitation of children and legal visitation rights, where the Tennessee Court Appeals case Helson vs Cyrus (1998) reversed a lower court order that would permit refusal of visitation of a child with their father entirely. Ultimately, Billy Ray Cyrus, adopted Brandi and Trace and made them part of the now famous family for music and entertainment, the Cyrus Family. Drummer Baxter Helson, who was not fond of spotlights, started to live a simple life which made more sense to him. 

Who is Baxter Neal Helson Beyond the Cyrus Name?

Beyond the Cyrus name which was often under spotlight, drummer Baxter Helson always embraced a quiet presence rather than the center stage. However, Baxter remained a popular drummer in local Kentucky venues, representing those musicians who devoted themselves to their art and artistic talents rather than the spotlight of fame. This is even denoted in several references of the “drummer Baxter Helson” who is considered as an artist of authenticity and not social amplification. 

Baxter’s Relationship With Brandi and Trace: Biological Father to Spotlight

Being the biological father of Trace and Brandi, Baxter Neal Helson has always been of interest to several leaders. Popularly tagged by readers as “Trace Cyrus’ biological father” or “Brandi’s real dad”, Baxter is often forced to the spotlight, Trace being a popular musician with the Metro Station and Brandi a television host and DJ. Even though more attention deviates and centers on Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus, the legacy of Helson moves on with the names Brandi and Trace. 

The current ongoing relationship of Helson with his biological children, Trace and Brandi, are less reported since the marriage of Tish with Billy Ray. After the children’s adoption into the Cyrus family, the image that prevails and the storyline in the public’s eye has shifted perspectives. Despite the limited interaction Baxter holds after the adoption, the legal presence he had in the formative years has left a meaningful mark on their life. 

Where is Baxter Neal Helson Now?

Even though there aren’t any detailed reports of Baxter’s current life, it is quite evident that he has chosen a more peaceful and private life, far away from the public eye. Besides, some reports also suggest that he has moved to Phoenix, Arizona from Kentucky. There are also reports that provide his net worth as around 1.2 million though speculative. 

Conclusion

Baxter Neal Helson's legacy lacks the hallmark of celebrity and the grandeur of fame, but is marked by a quieter force that anchors his life over time. His intention of staying outside the spotlight, his fatherly role and his immense interest and potential in music was what created the drummer Baxter legacy. Through Brandi and Trace, Baxter’s biological children, his legacy still continues as they are part of the household he helped nurture. Hence, his mark is always left over to resonate across generations.  

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Emily Wilson

Emily Wilson is a content strategist and writer with a passion for digital storytelling. She has a background in journalism and has worked with various media outlets, covering topics ranging from lifestyle to technology. When she’s not writing, Emily enjoys hiking, photography, and exploring new coffee shops.

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