Bernie Taupin, a celebrated English lyricist, poet, songwriter, singer, and visual artist, is best known for his iconic partnership with Sir Elton John. With an estimated net worth of $200 million, Taupin has left an indelible mark on music and art.
Over the course of his career, he penned lyrics for most of Elton John’s greatest hits and collaborated on over 30 albums, making their relationship one of the most legendary creative partnerships in history. Taupin has described their decades-long bond as a “nonsexual love affair,” reflecting its depth and significance.
Quick Overview of Bernie Taupin life
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Bernard John Taupin |
| Date of Birth | May 22, 1950 |
| Age | 74 years (as of 2024) |
| Birth Place | Sleaford, Lincolnshire, England |
| Father | Robert Taupin |
| Mother | Daphne Cort Taupin |
| Nationality | British |
| Religion | Not widely discussed |
| Marital Status | Married to Heather Lynn Hodgins Kidd |
| Height | Approx. 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 75 kg (165 lbs) |
| Children | Charley Indiana, Georgey Devon |
| Profession | Lyricist and poet |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $200 million (as of 2024) |
Bernie Taupin’s Net Worth: $200 Million and Counting
Taupin’s impressive net worth stems from a variety of income sources:
- Songwriting Royalties: The majority of his wealth comes from his contributions to Elton John’s song catalog, which includes some of the most iconic hits in music history.
- Visual Art Sales: Taupin’s ventures into painting and visual storytelling have further bolstered his wealth.
- Solo Projects and Production Work: Beyond his work with Elton John, Taupin has released solo albums, produced notable records, and collaborated with other artists.
The enduring popularity of Elton John’s music and musicals like The Lion King has ensured a steady stream of royalties for Taupin.
Early Life: Humble Beginnings in Lincolnshire
Born Bernard John Taupin on May 22, 1950, in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, England, Taupin grew up in a rural farmhouse with no electricity. Despite struggling academically, he excelled in creative writing, displaying an early talent for storytelling.
At 15, he worked as a trainee at a local newspaper before embarking on a carefree period of travel with friends, supported by part-time jobs. A pivotal moment came when he answered an ad from Liberty Records seeking songwriters—a decision that would change his life forever.
Career Highlights: A Partnership That Defined Music
Taupin met Elton John in 1967 when both failed auditions at Liberty Records. However, Elton was captivated by Bernie’s poetry, sparking a partnership that would redefine modern music. Their collaborative process was unique: Bernie wrote the lyrics independently, capturing Elton’s emotions and fantasies, while Elton composed music to complement the words.
Iconic Hits with Elton John:
- “Your Song”
- “Rocket Man”
- “Candle in the Wind”
- “Tiny Dancer”
- “Crocodile Rock”
- “Daniel”
- “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”
- “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting”
- “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me”
Film and Broadway Contributions:
- Lyrics for The Lion King (1994), Billy Elliot, and Aida.
- Co-wrote Rocketman (2019), winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song (“(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again”).
Taupin also collaborated with artists like Starship and Heart, released spoken-word albums (Taupin), recorded his first solo album (He Who Rides the Tiger), and founded the band Farm Dogs in 1996. As a producer, he worked on American Gothic for David Ackles, which has been hailed as the “Sgt. Pepper of Folk Music.”
Personal Life: Love and Relationships
Taupin has been married four times:
- Maxine Feibelman (1971–1976): Taupin’s first wife, Maxine, played a significant role in his life and creative work. Their relationship inspired many of Elton John’s early songs, including the timeless classic Tiny Dancer.
- Toni Lynn Russo (1979–1991): Taupin’s second marriage was to Toni Lynn Russo, the sister of renowned actress Rene Russo. This union lasted for 12 years before ending in divorce.
- Stephanie Haymes Roven (1993–1998): His third wife, Stephanie, is the daughter of legendary entertainers Dick Haymes and Fran Jeffries. Their five-year marriage brought Taupin into the spotlight of Hollywood’s entertainment circles.
- Heather Kidd (2004–Present): Taupin married Heather Kidd in 2004, and the couple shares a quiet life in Santa Barbara County, California. They are parents to two children, maintaining a balance between family life and Taupin’s creative pursuits.
Real Estate: Luxurious Living in California
In 2017, Taupin listed his 30-acre ranch in Santa Ynez Valley for $4.7 million. The property includes a five-bedroom mansion, studio, office, and an equestrian center with an arena and stables. Additional amenities include a pizza oven, pool, and tranquil pond. Despite his love for horses, reports suggest Taupin no longer rides, which influenced his decision to sell the property.
The following table highlights Bernie Taupin’s key awards, spanning decades of creative excellence:
Awards and Recognitions
| Year | Award | Category | Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Songwriters Hall of Fame | Inductee | Collaboration with Elton John |
| 2005 | Satellite Award | Best Original Song | “A Love That Will Never Grow Old” (Brokeback Mountain) |
| 2006 | Golden Globe Award | Best Original Song | “A Love That Will Never Grow Old” (Brokeback Mountain) |
| 2019 | Satellite Award | Best Original Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Golden Globe Award | Best Original Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Academy Award (Oscar) | Best Original Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Online Film & Television Association | Best Music, Original Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Gold Derby Film Award | Original Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Hawaii Film Critics Society Award | Best Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Music City Film Critics’ Association | Best Song | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2020 | Latino Entertainment Journalists Association | Best Song Written for a Motion Picture | “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” (Rocketman) |
| 2024 | Library of Congress Gershwin Prize | Popular Song | Collaboration with Elton John |
| 2024 | Hollywood Music in Media Awards | Outstanding Career Achievement | Lifetime contributions to music |
Legacy and Impact
Taupin’s influence extends far beyond his lyrics. As Elton John’s primary lyricist, he helped shape the cultural landscape of pop and rock music. His words captured Elton’s personal experiences and universal emotions, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Cultural Recognition:
- Documentaries like Two Rooms and the film Rocketman have immortalized their partnership.
Broadway Contributions:
- Co-created musicals with Elton John, further cementing their artistic legacy.
Visual Arts:
- Taupin’s artwork, showcased across galleries in the United States and Canada, reveals his creative versatility beyond music.
FAQs
What are Bernie Taupin’s most famous collaborations with Elton John?
Iconic hits include “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” and “Candle in the Wind.”
How did Bernie Taupin and Elton John meet?
They met in 1967 after responding to a songwriter ad.
Did Elton John and Bernie Taupin have a romantic relationship?
No, Taupin describes their relationship as a “nonsexual love affair.”
Final Thoughts
Bernie Taupin’s journey from a rural farmhouse in England to global fame as Elton John’s lyricist is a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration. His contributions to music, art, and storytelling have left a lasting legacy, proving that words paired with melodies can change the world. Whether through timeless hits like “Rocket Man” or his visual art, Taupin continues to inspire new generations.
If you’re a fan of Bernie Taupin’s work, let us know your favorite song or memory in the comments below!
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