60Mike Curb is the former Acting Governor and Lieutenant Governor of California, a GRAMMY award-winning record producer, a Billboard Record Producer of the Year, a BMI multi-award-winning songwriter, and a championship motorsports owner. He is the founder and chairman of Curb Records and has contributed to American music, business, and public service for more than six decades with consistent dedication.
Mike continues to lead his independent record company, founded over 60 years ago, and the oldest independently distributed record company in the United States. His work reflects both creative achievement and an ongoing commitment to community-focused efforts.
Mike Curb of California has established a career that includes meaningful contributions to education and civil rights. His involvement in social programs demonstrates a clear and steady commitment to supporting people and strengthening communities across the country.
Curb developed Curb Records into a respected independent label by identifying artists with strong potential. His work as a producer earned him recognition as Billboard’s Producer of the Year. It included #1 recordings such as “Candy Man” by Sammy Davis, Jr., with The Mike Curb Congregation, and “Puppy Love” by Donny Osmond.
He also produced “Love Me For A Reason” by The Osmonds, “I’m Leaving It All Up To You” by Donny and Marie, and “All For The Love Of Sunshine” by Hank Williams Jr. with The Mike Curb Congregation. Additional achievements included “How Do I Live” by LeAnn Rimes and chart records by Roy Orbison, Tony Bennett, Solomon Burke, and Debby Boone.
Mike composed music for films, including The Wild Angels, which led to Billboard success with “Blues’ Theme” and “Wild Angels Theme.” He also wrote “Burning Bridges” for Kelly’s Heroes, which became a worldwide hit performed by his group.
He contributed to commercial themes for Honda, Chevrolet, and Hot Wheels, as well as music for American Bandstand and other projects. His songwriting also included work connected to Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Hank Williams Jr., and Eydie Gorme.
Curb expanded his influence through publishing and production achievements that shaped chart history. These include “You Light Up My Life” by Debby Boone, the #1 record of the 1970s, along with long-running chart records such as “Oh What A Night” and “How Do I Live.”
He also supported major country and Christian music successes, including “More Than A Memory,” “Three Wooden Crosses,” and “I Don’t Dance.” His work contributed to lasting recognition across multiple genres and audiences.
Mike later deepened his involvement in contemporary Christian music, supporting early artists and expanding partnerships that increased the genre's reach. His leadership extended to work with Word Records and projects that earned GRAMMY and Dove Award recognition.
Mike Curb continued his service in public office as Lieutenant Governor of California and Acting Governor for over 200 days during his first two years in office. During that time, he made over 400 appointments and signed legislation addressing important issues across the state.
He also contributed to national initiatives, including support for Proposition 13 and involvement in federal policy efforts. His work included collaboration with national leaders on economic and social matters.
Curb later focused on philanthropy through the Curb Foundation, supporting education, healthcare, civil rights, and programs for underserved communities. His efforts included partnerships with universities and medical institutions.
He helped establish programs at 15 universities and colleges and supported the restoration of 15 historic properties on Nashville’s Music Row. His work reflects a continued commitment to education and preservation.
Mike contributed to community programs addressing homelessness, including initiatives that created over 250,000 square feet of shelter space. These efforts extended to multiple cities and included partnerships with local organizations.
He also supported museum and educational projects that highlight music history and cultural development. His involvement includes galleries and centers connected to major institutions across the country.
Curb has remained active in motorsports, where his teams achieved major victories, including championships and wins at the Indianapolis 500.
Mike Curb has received numerous honors, including a GRAMMY award, stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Music City Walk of Fame, and honorary degrees from seven universities. His career reflects a consistent commitment to music, leadership, and public service.