Nigel John Taylor Bass guitarist for the British band Duran Duran Date of Birth: 20.06.1960 Country: Great Britain

1. Childhood and Early Influences
2. Formation of Duran Duran
3. Duran Duran's Rise to Stardom
4. John Taylor, the Heartthrob
5. The Challenges of Fame
6. Personal Life
7. Creative and Personal Crisis
8. Departure from Duran Duran
9. Solo Career and Film
10. Finding Stability
11. Duran Duran Reunion
12. Today

Childhood and Early Influences

John Taylor, the bass guitarist for the British new wave band Duran Duran, was born as an only child and received considerable attention and care. Initially interested in art, he enjoyed painting toy soldiers and even experimented with mixing talcum powder into paint to create the effect of fabric textures on uniforms. John's parents supported his artistic pursuits, taking him to various exhibitions and museums. However, at age 11, he met Nick Rhodes, his future bandmate, and began playing guitar at 14.

Formation of Duran Duran

In 1978, John and Nick formed a band. Its lineup fluctuated before it solidified with John, Nick, Roger and Andy Taylor (no relation to each other), and lead vocalist Simon Le Bon. The band's name was inspired by Jane Fonda's character in the sci-fi film "Barbarella."

Duran Duran's Rise to Stardom

With their energetic new wave music and post-punk image, Duran Duran quickly gained popularity. By 1983, their concerts attracted thousands worldwide, and their faces adorned posters in countless teenage girls' bedrooms. Their use of music videos, such as the iconic "Rio," "Hungry Like a Wolf," and "Wild Boys," further contributed to their rise.

John Taylor, the Heartthrob

Among the five members of Duran Duran, John Taylor garnered the most attention from female fans. His tall, dark-haired appearance earned him the title of "sexiest man alive" three years in a row by "Star Hits" magazine.

The Challenges of Fame

The immense fame and opportunities that came with Duran Duran's success proved challenging. John and his bandmates indulged in excessive money, alcohol, and other pleasures. However, John admits that they "didn't expect it at first" and that the female attention was an unexpected "side effect" of their success.

Personal Life

Unlike his married bandmates, John remained single until 1989, focusing on his music career. Nevertheless, he was romantically linked to Grace Jones, Diana Ross, and Janine Andrews. In 1991, he married Amanda de Cadenet, a budding actress. Their daughter, Atlanta, was born in 1992.

Creative and Personal Crisis

In the early 1990s, John experienced a personal and professional low point. He began using cocaine and contemplated leaving Duran Duran, feeling he had given too much to the band. In 1996, his marriage to de Cadenet ended, and he was left with the custody of their daughter.

Departure from Duran Duran

After battling drug addiction, John finally decided to leave Duran Duran in 1997. This announcement came as a surprise to both the band and fans but marked a necessary shift in his career.

Solo Career and Film

John released his solo album, "Feelings Are Good and the Other Lies," in 1997, showcasing a departure from Duran Duran's sound. He also made his film debut in the 1999 movie "Sugar Town."

Finding Stability

John's personal life remained tumultuous until he met Gela Nash, a designer, in 1998. They married in 1999 and have been together ever since, raising John's daughter and Gela's children in a Hollywood mansion.

Duran Duran Reunion

In 2003, Duran Duran reunited in its original lineup. They released a new album, "Astronaut," in 2004. John welcomed the reunion, stating, "We're still all alive, we've got new songs, so why not?"

Today

Today, John continues to play bass guitar for Duran Duran while enjoying the stability and fulfillment of his family life. He remains optimistic, stating, "I love people, actually. Especially kids. They're open and honest. They remind me of myself. The real me."