When people hear the name Baxter Neal Helson, it may not ring as many bells as other figures tied to the entertainment industry. However, his life story is a mix of music, family entanglements, and an indirect link to the spotlight that makes for an intriguing tale. Now 58 years old and with an estimated net worth of $1.2 million (as of early 2025), Helson has largely stayed out of the public eye but remains a notable figure due to his connections and contributions to music.
A Passion for Music: The Making of a Drummer
Born on December 21, 1966, in New York City, Helson developed an early passion for music, particularly drumming. Although his early years remain largely undocumented, it is clear that his love for percussion shaped his professional life. Unlike mainstream drummers who rose to international fame, Helson carved out a respectable career in local music scenes, particularly in Ashland, Kentucky.
Throughout the years, Helson performed in various local bands, playing in bars and parties, where he gained a loyal but niche following. While he never reached household-name status, he was recognized as a skilled and dedicated musician within his circles.
Marriage, Family, and Ties to the Cyrus Legacy
Beyond his musical career, what brought Helson into wider public attention was his relationship with Leticia “Tish” Finley. The two got married in 1986, a union that brought both love and challenges. Together, they welcomed two children, Brandi Glenn and Trace Cyrus. However, their marriage was short-lived, with their divorce finalized in 1989.
This split led to contentious custody battles, further pushing Helson into the public eye, albeit reluctantly. Despite the legal disputes, he was granted visitation rights, ensuring that he remained part of his children’s lives, even as Tish moved on and later married country music icon Billy Ray Cyrus. The marriage between Tish and Billy Ray led to a blended family that included Miley Cyrus, turning the entire situation into a complex web of relationships intertwined with stardom.
Life After the Divorce: Moving Away from the Spotlight
After his split from Tish, Helson chose to step away from public attention and reportedly moved to Phoenix, Arizona. Unlike his former spouse and children, who embraced the entertainment industry, he opted for a more private lifestyle, focusing on his music and potential business ventures.
Despite staying off the radar, his financial standing remains stable, with a net worth of $1.2 million as of 2025. While the sources of his income remain somewhat unclear, it is likely that his drumming career and other business activities continue to provide him with a sustainable livelihood. Unlike many figures linked to the music industry, Helson has chosen not to engage with social media or public appearances, making information about his current life scarce.
The Cyrus Connection: A Legacy in Entertainment
Although Helson has removed himself from the public eye, his name remains tied to the Cyrus family, given that his children, Brandi and Trace, have pursued careers in entertainment.
- Brandi Cyrus has established herself as a television host, podcast personality, and DJ, maintaining a presence in the industry while keeping a low-profile lifestyle compared to her step-sister Miley.
- Trace Cyrus, on the other hand, followed a musical path, gaining recognition as the lead guitarist and vocalist for Metro Station, a band that found success with hits like Shake It in the mid-2000s.
While their careers flourished under Billy Ray and Tish’s guidance, it’s important to note that Helson remains a part of their history, albeit from a distance. His indirect association with one of America’s most famous entertainment families continues to pique curiosity about his role in the broader narrative of the Cyrus dynasty.
Baxter Neal Helson Today:
At 58 years old, Helson lives a relatively low-key life, avoiding the glitz and glam of the entertainment world. Unlike many who might seek out opportunities to capitalize on past relationships or famous family connections, he appears content with his privacy and financial stability.
While his early years in music made an impact within local scenes, his legacy is largely defined by his connection to the Cyrus family. That being said, his contributions to music and his role as a father should not be overshadowed by his brief time in the public eye.
