Bernie Taupin’s Finances: 2024 Net Worth, Gambling Setbacks, and Costly Divorces
Bernie Taupin may not be as instantly recognizable as some of the biggest stars in music, but his impact on popular culture is immeasurable. As the longtime lyricist and songwriting partner of Elton John, Taupin has penned some of the most beloved and enduring songs of the past five decades.
His poetic and evocative lyrics have given voice to Elton’s melodies, creating a body of work that has touched millions of lives around the world. From “Your Song” to “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer” to “Candle in the Wind,” Taupin’s words have become part of the soundtrack of our lives.
But who is the man behind these iconic lyrics, and what is his story? Let’s delve into the life and career of Bernie Taupin, the wordsmith who helped shape the sound of a generation.
Who is Bernie Taupin?
Bernard John Taupin was born on May 22, 1950, in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, England. Growing up on a farm in rural England, young Bernie developed a love for literature and poetry that would later inform his songwriting style.
Unlike many of his peers drawn to London’s bustling music scene, Taupin’s early influences came from American country music and folk ballads, which he heard on Radio Luxembourg.
Taupin’s journey into the world of music began in 1967 when, at 17, he answered an advertisement in the New Musical Express seeking new songwriters.
This fateful decision would lead to his introduction to a young pianist named Reginald Dwight, who would later become known as Elton John. The two formed an instant connection, with Taupin providing lyrics for John’s melodies, a partnership that would go on to create some of the most memorable songs in pop music history.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bernard John Taupin |
| Date of Birth | May 22, 1950 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 74 |
| Place of Birth | Sleaford, Lincolnshire, England |
| Current Residence | Santa Barbara County, California, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Heather Kidd (Married since 2004) |
| Children | Two daughters: Charley Indiana, Georgey Devon |
| Previous Spouses | Maxine Feibelman, Toni Lynn Russo, Stephanie Roven |
Personal Life and Relationships
Bernie Taupin’s life has been as colorful and varied as his lyrics. He has been married four times, each relationship contributing to his life experiences and, undoubtedly, his art.
His first marriage was to Maxine Feibelman in 1971, which lasted until 1976. Many of Elton John’s early hits were influenced by this relationship, including the song “Tiny Dancer,” which was inspired by Maxine.
In 1979, Taupin married Toni Lynn Russo, the sister of actress Rene Russo. This marriage lasted until 1991. His third marriage was to Stephanie Haymes Roven, daughter of entertainers Dick Haymes and Fran Jeffries, from 1993 to 1998.
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Taupin married Heather Kidd in 2004. They have two daughters, Charley Indiana and Georgey Devon. The family resides on a ranch in Santa Barbara County, California, where Taupin indulges in his passions for raising horses and creating visual art.
Throughout his journey, Taupin has maintained a close friendship with Elton John, describing their relationship as a “non-sexual love affair.” Their enduring partnership, both personal and professional, has been a constant thread through their lives ups and downs.
Professional Career
Bernie Taupin’s professional career is intrinsically linked to his collaboration with Elton John, but it extends far beyond that legendary partnership. Their working method was unique: Taupin would write the lyrics, often drawing inspiration from his love of Americana and his rural English upbringing, and pass them to John, who would then compose the music. This process led to the creation of numerous hit songs and albums that defined the sound of the 1970s and beyond.
Some of their most famous collaborations include:
- “Your Song” (1970)
- “Rocket Man” (1972)
- “Crocodile Rock” (1972)
- “Daniel” (1973)
- “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” (1973)
- “Candle in the Wind” (1974, revised in 1997 as a tribute to Princess Diana)
- “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” (1976)
- “I’m Still Standing” (1983)
While his work with Elton John is the cornerstone of his career, Taupin has collaborated with many other artists. He has written lyrics for Alice Cooper, Starship, Heart, and Willie Nelson, among others. His versatility as a lyricist has allowed him to work across various genres, from rock to country.
In addition to songwriting, Taupin has pursued other creative endeavors. He has released solo albums, including “Taupin” (1971) and “He Who Rides the Tiger” (1980). In the 1990s, he formed a band called Farm Dogs, releasing two albums showcasing his singing and songwriting abilities.
Taupin’s talents extend beyond music. He is an accomplished painter whose visual art is exhibited in galleries across the United States. Like his lyrics, his artwork often draws inspiration from American themes and imagery.
Age and Physique
As of 2024, Bernie Taupin is 74 years old. Born in 1950, he has lived through and contributed to some of the most significant cultural shifts of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Despite the passage of time, Taupin remains active in his creative pursuits, continuing to write, paint, and collaborate with various artists.
Standing approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall, Taupin has maintained a relatively low-key public profile compared to his more flamboyant musical partner, Elton John. His appearance has evolved over the years, from the long-haired, denim-clad look of the 1970s to a more refined, mature style in recent decades.
Net Worth and Salary
Bernie Taupin’s net worth is estimated at around $200 million as of 2024. This substantial wealth is primarily derived from his songwriting royalties, particularly his collaborations with Elton John. Their extensive catalog of hit songs continues to generate significant income through radio play, streaming, and licensing for films and commercials.
While specific salary details are not publicly available, it’s worth noting that successful songwriters like Taupin can earn considerable sums from royalties. For instance, the enduring popularity of songs like “Candle in the Wind 1997” (the best-selling single since the charts began) has likely contributed significantly to his wealth.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $200 million (as of 2024) |
| Primary Income Source | Songwriting royalties, particularly from his collaboration with Elton John |
| Other Income Sources | Visual art sales, real estate investments |
| Notable Assets | 30-acre ranch in Santa Ynez Valley (listed for sale in 2017 at $4.7 million) |
Taupin’s ventures into visual art and occasional musical projects outside his work with Elton John have also added to his financial success. His paintings and mixed-media artworks have been well-received in the art world, providing another source of income.
Company Details and Investments
While Bernie Taupin is primarily known for his creative work, he has made notable investments. One of his most significant investments has been in real estate. Taupin has owned several properties, including a substantial ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley, California.
2017 Taupin listed this 30-acre ranch for sale at $4.7 million. The property he had owned for decades featured a house with five bedrooms, separate spaces for a studio and an office, and extensive equestrian facilities, reflecting Taupin’s love for horses.
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Beyond real estate, details of Taupin’s business ventures and investments are not widely publicized. Unlike some artists who have branched into diverse business interests, Taupin seems to have focused primarily on his creative pursuits and property investments.
It’s worth noting that Taupin, as a successful songwriter, likely has a portfolio of professionally managed investments to ensure long-term financial security. However, the specifics of these investments are not public knowledge.
Contact Details and Social Network Handles
Bernie Taupin maintains a relatively low profile on social media compared to many contemporary celebrities. However, he does have an official presence on some platforms:
| Platform | Handle |
|---|---|
| @bernietaupinofficial | |
| @bernietaupin | |
| Professional Contact | Not publicly available |
For professional inquiries, Taupin is represented by various agencies depending on the nature of the project (music, art, etc.). However, these contact details are not publicly available to prevent unsolicited communications.
Fans and interested parties often find updates about Taupin’s work and appearances through Elton John’s official channels or galleries representing his artwork.
Conclusion
Bernie Taupin’s life and career form a fascinating narrative of creativity, collaboration, and enduring success. From humble beginnings in rural England to becoming one of the most influential lyricists in popular music, Taupin’s journey is a testament to the power of words and the magic that can happen when artistic minds come together.
His partnership with Elton John has produced a legacy of music that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Yet, Taupin is much more than just Elton’s lyricist. He is a multifaceted artist in his own right, expressing himself through various mediums and continually evolving as a creative force.
As he enters his mid-70s, Bernie Taupin shows no signs of slowing down. His words continue to inspire, his paintings continue to captivate, and his influence on popular culture remains as strong as ever. In the grand tapestry of music history, Bernie Taupin has woven threads that will continue shining brightly for generations.