John Taylor

Early Life

John Taylor, born Nigel John Taylor in Solihull, England, grew up in Hollywood, Worcestershire. His early education took place at Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic School and Abbey High School in Redditch. As a child, he struggled with severe myopia, which led him to wear glasses. His interests included James Bond films and wargaming, but it was music that ultimately captured his heart. Inspired by Roxy Music, he began collecting records and teaching himself piano, eventually forming his first band, Shock Treatment.

Career

In 1978, Taylor co-founded the iconic band Duran Duran with school friend Nick Rhodes and Stephen Duffy. The band quickly rose to fame in the early 1980s, largely due to their innovative music videos that dominated MTV. Initially a guitarist, Taylor switched to bass guitar, influenced by the funky rhythms of Chic and the Clash. Duran Duran's debut album was released in 1981, leading to a string of hits and global recognition. In 1985, Taylor briefly ventured into a side project called the Power Station, collaborating with notable musicians like Robert Palmer and Tony Thompson. After leaving Duran Duran in 1997 to pursue a solo career, he released several albums and acted in films, before reuniting with the band in 2001.

Personal Life

Taylor's personal life has seen its share of notable relationships. He was engaged to Danish model Renée Toft Simonsen from 1985 to 1989 and married Amanda De Cadenet in 1991, with whom he has a daughter, Atlanta Noo. In 1999, he married Gela Nash, co-founder of Juicy Couture. The couple resides primarily in Los Angeles but also spends time at their estate in South Wraxall Manor, purchased in 2005. Taylor became an American citizen in 2013, holding dual citizenship with the UK.