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What Is Bernie Taupin’s Net Worth?
Bernie Taupin, the celebrated English songwriter, poet, and lyricist, boasts a substantial net worth of $200 million. A significant portion of this wealth is attributed to his long-standing and incredibly successful collaboration with Elton John, particularly their extensive song catalog. Taupin’s lyrical genius has been the cornerstone of many of Elton John’s greatest hits, making him an integral part of one of the most enduring partnerships in music history.
The Genesis of a Lyrical Legacy
The partnership that would define both their careers began in 1967 when both Taupin and John responded to an advertisement seeking new songwriters. This chance encounter proved to be a synergistic match. Elton John possessed the musical talent but felt his songwriting needed support, while Taupin was a gifted writer, but not a musician. The two found that their strengths balanced each other, making them a formidable team. Taupin’s ability to translate Elton John’s emotions, memories, and fantasies into evocative lyrics has been described as crucial to their success.
One illustrative example of their collaboration is the creation of “Your Song.” In the early 1970s, while staying at Elton John’s mother’s apartment, Taupin penned the lyrics to the song. By the time he had finished brushing his teeth, John had already composed the melody that would turn it into their first major hit in the United States. This exemplifies how efficiently the pair worked together at the start of their careers. Interestingly, Taupin has publicly expressed his dislike for “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart,” a song he co-wrote that became one of their biggest hits in Europe. Despite his personal feelings towards the song, it is still one of his most successful compositions.
In 1992, Taupin and John were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to their immense contribution to music. Taupin has often described his relationship with Elton John as a “nonsexual love affair,” highlighting the deep bond and mutual respect that have sustained their creative partnership for decades. Their catalog includes several iconic tracks, such as “Your Song” (1970), which reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart. “Tiny Dancer” (1972), initially not a chart-topper, has become one of John’s most beloved songs, largely thanks to its inclusion in the film “Almost Famous.” “Rocket Man” (1972), another classic, reached No. 2 in the UK and No. 6 in the US. “Candle in the Wind” (1973/1997), originally a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, was reworked in 1997 following Princess Diana’s death and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. “Crocodile Rock” (1973) secured Elton John’s first No. 1 hit in the US. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (1974) and “Daniel” (1973) also reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing their place in music history. These songs alone account for a significant portion of Bernie Taupin’s net worth through royalties and publishing rights.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Bernard John Taupin was born on May 22, 1950, in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, England. He was raised in a farmhouse initially without electricity, a stark contrast to the lifestyle his songwriting career would afford him later. Though he wasn’t academically inclined, he demonstrated a talent for creative writing from a young age. At 15, Taupin briefly worked as a trainee at a local newspaper but quickly left to hitchhike around the country. These early experiences and observations of life influenced his songwriting later. He responded to an advertisement with Liberty Records, setting the stage for a remarkable career, and one that would impact his <Bernie Taupin Net Worth< by leaps and bounds.
Though neither Taupin nor Elton John initially passed the audition with Liberty Records individually, their subsequent meeting and collaboration led to the creation of over 30 albums together. In 1977, Taupin and John briefly pursued separate projects, allowing Taupin to work with artists like Alice Cooper. However, by 1980, they resumed their collaboration, continuing to produce hit after hit. Bernie Taupin’s songwriting extends to films, including “Aida,” “The Lion King” (1994), and “Billy Elliot.” He also penned the screenplay for “Rocketman,” the Elton John biopic. Throughout the 80s and 90s, their hits included “Sad Songs,” “Simple Life,” and “Believe.” In 1991, the documentary “Two Rooms” highlighted the pair’s collaboration style, where Taupin would write lyrics and John would compose the music without further interaction. Over the years, their collaboration evolved, becoming more interactive and collaborative.
Taupin and John also collaborated on several Broadway musicals. Bernie has also worked with other artists, including Starship and Heart. He produced David Ackles’ “American Gothic,” hailed as the “Sgt. Pepper of Folk Music.” As a solo artist, Taupin released spoken-word albums like “Taupin” in the early 70s and his first singing album, “He Who Rides the Tiger.” In 1996, he formed the band Farm Dogs. Since 2010, Taupin has also been an active visual artist, with his artwork displayed across the United States and Canada. This shows his other artistic pursuits besides music which also contribute to his <Bernie Taupin Net Worth<.
Personal Life and Relationships
Bernie Taupin has been married four times. His first wife was Maxine Feibelman, whom he married in 1971. Their divorce in 1976 influenced several of Elton John’s songs. In 1979, he married Toni Lynn Russo, sister of Rene Russo, but they divorced in 1991. His third marriage was to Stephanie Haymes Roven in 1993, ending in 1998. In 2004, he married Heather Kidd, with whom he has two children and lives in Santa Barbara County, California.
Real Estate Ventures
In 2017, Taupin listed a ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley for $4.7 million. The 30-acre ranch, acquired decades earlier, was initially listed for $5.95 million in 2016. The main house includes five bedrooms, with separate spaces for a studio and an office. The property features an equestrian center with an arena and stables. Despite his fondness for horses, Taupin reportedly no longer rides, prompting the sale. Additional features included a pizza oven, pool, pond, and outdoor riding rings. These real estate ventures showcase some of the investments which help to form the <Bernie Taupin Net Worth<. While the specific address is not provided, the sale price gives some insights on the extent of the investments.
