Baxter Neal Helson is a name that may not be familiar to everyone, but his story is an interesting part of the famous Cyrus family’s history. Known for his talent as a drummer and for being the first husband of Tish Cyrus, Baxter lived a life that quietly influenced one of America’s most recognized entertainment families.
While many people know the Cyrus family through stars like Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley Cyrus, and others, few know much about Baxter — the man who was part of the family’s early story. His connection through marriage to Tish Cyrus and his role as the biological father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus make him an important yet often overlooked figure.
This article explores Baxter Neal Helson’s life, from his early years and music career to his family relationships and personal choices. Written in clear and simple language, it aims to give an easy-to-understand picture of who he is, his journey, and how his story fits into the larger legacy of the Cyrus family.
Quick Bio
iteam | Information |
---|---|
Full name | Baxter Neal Helson |
Date of birth | Circa 1966 |
Place of origin | Ashland, Kentucky, USA |
Occupation | Musician, drummer, multi instrumentalist |
Notable relation | Former husband of Tish Cyrus, father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus |
Marital status | Married to Tish Cyrus (mid 1980s), divorced later |
Children | Two: daughter Brandi (born 1987) and son Trace (born 1989) |
Early Life and Background
Very little verified public information exists about Baxter Neal Helson’s early life. He was born around 1966 and is believed to have come from Ashland, Kentucky.
What is clear is that Helson had a passion for music, especially as a drummer. His career largely revolved around his skills as a drummer. Though he never reached top-tier celebrity status, his involvement in the music scene confirmed his reputation as a talented musician.
Because Helson chose a more private life, detailed information about his education, upbringing, or family of origin remains scarce. This low-profile existence means that many articles rely on a few public legal documents and family-connection details.
Music Career

Helson’s career in music appears modest in terms of public fame, but meaningful in his local context. He was a professional drummer and multi instrumentalist who performed in local bands in the Ashland area.
His name came into wider notice not because of major chart-topping success, but because of his connection to the Cyrus family through his marriage to Tish Cyrus.
Overall, while Helson did not achieve mainstream star status, music was clearly his craft and a significant part of his life.
Marriage to Tish Cyrus and Family Life
One of the most public aspects of Helson’s life is his marriage to Tish Cyrus, whose birth name is Leticia Jean Finley. Tish later became well known in the entertainment world as manager and producer, and as the mother of singer and actress Miley Cyrus.
Marriage and children
Tish married Baxter Neal Helson in the mid 1980s, and their marriage lasted a few years before ending in divorce. During their marriage, they had two children:
- Daughter Brandi Glenn Cyrus, born 26 May 1987.
- Son Trace Dempsey Cyrus (born Neil Timothy Helson), born 24 February 1989.
After the divorce, Tish later married country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, who adopted both Brandi and Trace.
Custody and legal matters
The separation between Helson and Tish was followed by legal proceedings concerning custody and visitation of the children. The Tennessee Court of Appeals case, Helson v. Cyrus, decided on 14 October 1998, shows that visitation rights and family dynamics were complex.
The lower court had ruled that their nine-year-old son did not have to visit his father if he did not wish to, but this part of the ruling was later reversed on appeal. This case confirms that Helson’s involvement in his children’s upbringing was emotionally and legally challenging.
Connection to the Cyrus Family Legacy
Though Helson himself remains little known in the public eye, his role in the family tree of the famous Cyrus family gives him a unique place in their story.
His daughter Brandi and son Trace later became public figures. Brandi has worked as a TV host, DJ, and media personality, while Trace became known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Metro Station. When Tish married Billy Ray Cyrus, he legally adopted the two children from her marriage with Helson.
Thus, even though Helson chose a more private life, his children’s careers in entertainment and their place in the Cyrus family history mean that his name appears in many stories about the family’s beginnings.
Later Life and Privacy
After the divorce, Baxter Neal Helson stepped largely out of the public spotlight. He has kept out of the public eye for many years. Some reports say he resides in Phoenix, Arizona, though this has not been publicly confirmed.
His estimated net worth is around 1.2 million USD as of 2022. Because he lives quietly, there are few recent interviews or photos of him, and many details about his current life remain private.
Legacy and Significance

Even though Baxter Neal Helson is not widely known, his story holds meaning for several reasons.
- Family Roots of Celebrity
For fans of Miley Cyrus or the wider Cyrus family, understanding the early family connections helps paint a fuller picture. Helson was the biological father of two of Tish’s children before the family became famous. - A Career in Music Outside Fame
His story represents the many musicians who dedicate themselves to their art without becoming international stars. - Custody and Family Law in a Celebrity Context
Helson’s custody case shows how complex family situations can become when private individuals are connected to famous families. - An Under-explored Part of Celebrity History
Helson’s story adds depth to the Cyrus family’s history, showing the earlier chapters that shaped their journey long before global fame.
Challenges and Uncertainties
When writing about Helson, it is important to understand a few limits:
- Many online biographies have small inconsistencies, such as his exact birthdate or birthplace.
- He has always lived privately, so there are fewer verified details about him than about more famous people.
- Many websites repeat the same limited information, making it difficult to confirm every fact.
Summary
Baxter Neal Helson may not be a household name, but his story includes themes of music, family, and privacy. As a drummer and father of two children who became part of one of America’s most famous families, he represents a quieter side of fame.
He was married to Tish Cyrus in the 1980s, had two children, then moved away from public life after their divorce. Though he has stayed out of the spotlight, his connection to the Cyrus family ensures that his story remains a small but important part of their history.
In short, Baxter Neal Helson is the talented musician and private father whose life quietly helped shape the roots of one of entertainment’s most well-known families.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Baxter Neal Helson?
He is an American musician and drummer known as the first husband of Tish Cyrus and the biological father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus. - When and where was he born?
He was born around 1966, most likely in Ashland, Kentucky. - What is his musical career like?
He performed as a drummer and multi instrumentalist, mostly in local bands and smaller venues. - How long was he married to Tish Cyrus?
They were married in the mid 1980s and divorced a few years later. - Who are his children?
He is the father of Brandi Cyrus and Trace Cyrus. - Did Billy Ray Cyrus adopt his children?
Yes, when Tish married Billy Ray Cyrus, he legally adopted Brandi and Trace. - Is Baxter Neal Helson still in the public eye?
No, he has lived privately for many years. - What was the legal dispute about?
The 1998 case Helson v. Cyrus focused on visitation rights and custody arrangements for his children. - What is his net worth?
It is estimated to be about 1.2 million USD. - Why is he not as well known as the rest of the Cyrus family?
He chose a private life and his music career remained local, while his children and former wife became famous later.
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