Roger Taylor facts: Queen drummer's age, wife, children, songs and career explained

6 June 2024, 11:38 | Updated: 6 June 2024, 13:12

Roger Taylor, the drummer of the legendary band Queen, has led a life that epitomizes the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.

Known for his powerful drumming, distinctive voice, and songwriting prowess, Roger Taylor played a pivotal role in shaping Queen’s sound and success.

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Beyond the stage, his career encompasses solo projects, collaborations, and contributions to the music industry that highlight his versatility and enduring influence.

1. How old is Roger Taylor?

   

   Roger Taylor, born on July 26, 1949, is currently 74 years old.

   He was born in King's Lynn, Norfolk. His parents were Winifred (née Hitchens) and Michael Taylor. Roger has one younger sister, Clare Taylor.

   His early life in Norfolk and later in Truro, Cornwall, where the family moved when he was seven, set the stage for his eventual rise to fame as Queen's drummer.

2. How did he get his start in music?

   

   Roger Taylor's journey into music began at an early age. He started learning the ukulele when he was seven and soon after transitioned to playing the guitar and drums. His interest in drumming solidified when he formed his first band, The Bubblingover Boys, at the age of 15.

   Taylor's formal education included attending Truro School in Cornwall, where he further honed his musical skills.

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   During his school years, he played in several bands, including The Reaction, a semi-professional rock group. After finishing school, he enrolled at the London Hospital Medical College to study dentistry, but his passion for music soon took precedence.

   In 1969, Taylor answered an advertisement for a drummer in a local magazine, which led to him meeting Brian May and Tim Staffell. They formed the band Smile, with Taylor on drums.

   Although Smile saw limited success, it laid the foundation for what would become Queen. When Staffell left Smile in 1970, Freddie Mercury joined the group, and they rebranded as Queen. John Deacon later joined the band too.

3. What songs did he write for Queen?

   

   Queen - Radio Ga Ga (Official Video)

   Among the songs he wrote for Queen include:

   • Radio Ga Ga
   • A Kind of Magic
   • Breakthru
   • The Invisible Man
   • These Are the Days of Our Lives

4. Who is Roger Taylor's wife and does he have kids?

   

   Roger Taylor is married to Sarina Potgieter. The couple wed in 2010. Before his marriage to Sarina, Roger Taylor had relationships with Dominique Beyrand and Debbie Leng.

   Roger Taylor has five children:

   1. Felix Luther Taylor - born in 1980, from his relationship with Dominique Beyrand.

   2. Rory Eleanor Taylor - born in 1986, from his relationship with Dominique Beyrand.

   3. Rufus Tiger Taylor - born in 1991, from his relationship with Debbie Leng. Rufus is also a musician and has played drums for the band The Darkness.

   4. Tigerlily Taylor - born in 1994, from his relationship with Debbie Leng. She is a successful model.

   5. Lola Daisy May Taylor - born in 2000, from his relationship with Debbie Leng.

   

   

5. What has he done outside of Queen?

   

   Roger Taylor - Man On Fire (promotional video, 1984)

   Roger Taylor has released several solo albums, including:

   1. Fun in Space (1981) - His debut solo album, featuring the hit single 'Future Management.'

   2. Strange Frontier (1984) - This album included the singles 'Strange Frontier' and 'Man on Fire.'

   3. Happiness? (1994) - Known for the single 'Nazis 1994.'

   4. Electric Fire (1998) - Featuring the song 'Surrender.'

   5. Fun on Earth (2013) - His most recent solo album, featuring tracks like 'Sunny Day.'

   In addition to his solo career, Roger Taylor formed a band called The Cross in 1987. The band have released three albums.

   Roger Taylor has been active in various charitable activities. He participated in the Mercury Phoenix Trust, an organization founded in memory of Freddie Mercury to fight HIV/AIDS. He has also supported other charitable causes through concerts and fundraising events.