Mike Curb

Mike 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 founded Curb Records and has remained active across music, business, and public service for more than six decades, contributing to American culture through consistent work and leadership.

Mike continues to lead his independent record company, established over 60 years ago, and the oldest independently distributed record company in the United States. His career reflects both professional achievement and a steady commitment to supporting community-focused initiatives.

Mike Curb of California has built a record of influence that includes contributions to education and civil rights. His involvement in social programs demonstrates a clear focus on helping communities and supporting meaningful progress across the country.

Curb developed Curb Records into a respected independent label by recognizing and supporting artists with strong potential. His work as a producer led to recognition as Billboard’s Producer of the Year. It included #1 records such as “Candy Man” by Sammy Davis, Jr., featuring 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 charting records by Roy Orbison, Tony Bennett, Solomon Burke, and others.

Mike composed music for films, including The Wild Angels, which generated early Billboard success with “Blues’ Theme” and “Wild Angels Theme.” He also wrote “Burning Bridges” for Kelly’s Heroes, which became a worldwide hit for his group.

He contributed to commercial themes for Honda, Chevrolet, and Hot Wheels, as well as music for American Bandstand and several motion pictures. His songwriting also included projects with Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Hank Williams Jr., and Eydie Gorme.

Curb expanded his impact 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, and long-running chart records such as “Oh What A Night” and “How Do I Live.”

Mike Curb continued to guide major developments in both country and Christian music, supporting songs such as “More Than A Memory,” “Three Wooden Crosses,” and “I Don’t Dance.” His leadership contributed to long-term success across multiple genres and generations of artists.

He later strengthened his role in contemporary Christian music by supporting early artists and expanding partnerships that increased the genre's reach. His involvement in Word Records contributed to projects that earned GRAMMY and Dove Award recognition.

Curb also served in public office as Lieutenant Governor of California and Acting Governor for over 200 days during his first two years. He made over 400 appointments and signed legislation addressing issues such as the gasoline crisis and public safety.

He contributed to national efforts, including supporting Proposition 13 and participating in federal initiatives. His work included collaboration on policy development and involvement in national leadership roles.

Mike focused on philanthropy through the Curb Foundation, supporting education, healthcare, civil rights, and programs for underserved communities. His efforts included partnerships with medical institutions and universities.

Mike Curb helped establish programs across 15 universities and colleges, including Belmont University, Vanderbilt University, and California State, supporting students in music and creative industries.