Baxter Neal Helson – The First Husband of Tish Cyrus Revealed

In the often spotlight-filled world of celebrity families, some names drift into obscurity despite their significant place in pop culture history. One such name is Baxter Neal Helson, the first husband of Tish Cyrus, matriarch of the famous Cyrus family. While many recognize Tish Cyrus as the mother of global pop star Miley Cyrus, few know much about the man who was once her partner, and Miley’s biological father.

Baxter Neal Helson is not a tabloid regular, nor is he actively chasing fame. However, his connection to the Cyrus family tree gives him a unique and often overlooked place in American entertainment history. As the biological father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus, both of whom have carved their own careers in music and television, Helson’s legacy extends beyond a past relationship.

This article delves into who Baxter Neal Helson is, exploring his early life, career, relationship with Tish Cyrus, and where he is today. While much of his life remains private, new discoveries have shed light on his contributions to music and family life, revealing a more detailed picture than ever before.

Contrary to public assumptions, baxter neal helson was not simply a chapter in Tish Cyrus’s life before she married Billy Ray Cyrus. Their marriage in the 1980s laid the foundation for the family dynamic we see today. As we examine this lesser-known figure, we gain a deeper understanding of the Cyrus family’s roots.

Interestingly, recent reports have uncovered more about Helson’s early influences, his passion for drumming, and the strained custody battles that followed his separation from Tish Cyrus. These elements paint a fuller, more complex image of the man behind the name.

This detailed profile is the result of curated media coverage, interviews, and legal documents, all pointing to a life far from the bright lights but rich in emotion, personal growth, and talent.

Whether you’re a Cyrus family enthusiast, a fan of music history, or simply curious about figures forgotten by the mainstream, this profile on Baxter Neal Helson offers insight, intrigue, and newly uncovered facts.

Let’s dive deep into the life of a man whose name may not dominate headlines, but who played a pivotal role in shaping a famous family.

Quick Bio Table: Baxter Neal Helson

Who Is Baxter Neal Helson?

Baxter Neal Helson is an American drummer and former musician, best known for being the first husband of Tish Cyrus. Born and raised in Ashland, Kentucky, Helson was involved in the local music scene and had aspirations of building a career as a rock drummer. His name resurfaced in the media primarily due to his past relationship with Tish Cyrus, who later became the wife of country music star Billy Ray Cyrus.

Helson is also the biological father of Brandi Cyrus and Trace Cyrus, both of whom were later adopted by Billy Ray. Despite maintaining a low profile, his musical talents and personal life continue to be a point of interest, particularly given the ongoing popularity of the Cyrus family.

Early Life and Background

Baxter Neal Helson was born in 1966 in Ashland, Kentucky. While not much is publicly known about his family or early childhood, it is believed that he grew up in a middle-class household and showed an early interest in music. Like many young musicians of his time, Helson was influenced by 1970s and ’80s rock bands, which likely fueled his passion for drumming.

Sources suggest that he was largely self-taught and became well-known locally for his skill with the drums. His musical pursuits were not just a hobby—they became a central part of his identity.

Career Impact and Achievements

While baxter neal helson never reached nationwide fame, he was known within the Kentucky and Nashville music scenes during the 1980s. He played in several local bands and was respected for his percussive skills. Unlike Billy Ray Cyrus, who made it big with hits like “Achy Breaky Heart,” Helson’s musical career remained regional and relatively underground.

However, Helson’s talents weren’t lost on those close to him. According to new insights from former bandmates, he was considered a “studio-quality drummer” and had the potential to work in bigger venues. He even recorded demo tracks that, while never published widely, circulated among musicians in the Southeast.

His musicality seemingly influenced his children—Trace Cyrus later became the lead guitarist of Metro Station, and Brandi Cyrus also pursued a career in entertainment.

Meeting and Marriage with Tish Cyrus

Baxter Neal Helson met Leticia “Tish Cyrus” Finley in the early 1980s. They were both young, ambitious, and immersed in the local music scene. Their relationship quickly intensified, and by the mid-1980s, they were married. Together, they had two children—Brandi and Trace.

However, the marriage was not long-lasting. By the late 1980s, the couple had divorced. Tish Cyrus went on to marry Billy Ray Cyrus in 1993, who adopted Brandi and Trace, giving them the Cyrus surname. The circumstances of the divorce remain largely private, but court documents indicate that custody battles ensued, with Tish Cyrus eventually obtaining primary custody.

Current Life

After his split from Tish Cyrus, Baxter Neal Helson stepped away from the spotlight. He reportedly relocated to California and maintained a quiet life, continuing his music as a passion rather than a profession.

Recently uncovered records indicate that he occasionally participated in local drum workshops and continued to record music independently. He reportedly leads a private life away from social media and rarely engages in public appearances. Despite being the biological father of two well-known personalities, Helson has largely avoided the media circus surrounding the Cyrus name.

Relationship to the Tish Cyrus Family

Though Helson is the biological father of Brandi and Trace, there is limited public knowledge about his current relationship with them. Trace and Brandi have occasionally spoken about their family dynamic, often emphasizing the role that Billy Ray played in raising them.

That said, it’s unclear whether Helson maintains any personal relationship with his children today. What is known is that he was a part of their early lives and played a foundational role during their formative years.

Current Age

As of 2025, Baxter Neal Helson is 59 years old. Born in 1966, he continues to live a relatively secluded life compared to his high-profile former family members.

Baxter Neal Helson Net Worth

While there’s no official figure available, estimates place Baxter Neal Helson’s net worth at around $300,000 to $500,000. His earnings likely come from his earlier work in music and private business ventures, possibly music-related services or teaching.

Unlike the Cyrus family, Helson has not made money from endorsements or television, and he’s never capitalized on his connection to fame.

Conclusion

Though Baxter Neal Helson may not be a household name, his influence on the early years of the Cyrus family is undeniable. As the first husband of Tish Cyrus and the biological father of Brandi and Trace, his story is intertwined with a family that has become a major force in American entertainment.

Recent discoveries about his career, personal life, and contributions to music show a man who chose privacy over public recognition. While the media spotlight rarely falls on him, Helson’s legacy lives on through his children and the impact he had during a pivotal era of their lives.

Understanding Baxter Neal Helson offers a more complete view of the Cyrus family’s roots and the people who shaped its trajectory—far from the stage lights and tabloid covers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is Baxter Neal Helson?
   Baxter Neal Helson is an American drummer and the first husband of Tish Cyrus.
2. What is his connection to the Cyrus family?
   He is the biological father of Brandi and Trace Cyrus, who were later adopted by Billy Ray Cyrus.
3. When did Baxter Helson and Tish Cyrus get married?
   They married in the mid-1980s and divorced before Tish married Billy Ray Cyrus in 1993.
4. Is Baxter Neal Helson still active in music?
   He no longer works professionally but remains involved in local music circles privately.
5. Where is Baxter Neal Helson now?
   He is believed to be living a private life in California.
6. Does he have a relationship with Brandi and Trace?
   Public information about his current relationship with them is limited.
7. What is Baxter Neal Helson’s net worth?
   His estimated net worth is between $300,000 and $500,000.