Mike Curb

Mike Curb is the former Acting Governor and Lieutenant Governor of California, a GRAMMY Award-winning record producer, Billboard Record Producer of the Year, BMI multi-award-winning songwriter, and a championship motorsports owner. He is the founder and chairman of Curb Records and has influenced American culture for over six decades. Recognized for his work in music, business, and public service, he has also contributed significantly to philanthropy and education.

He oversees the independent record company he started over 60 years ago, the oldest in the United States still operating with independent distribution. He has devoted his efforts to social and civic causes and musical accomplishments. “Mike Curb” has become closely tied to creativity, leadership, and community involvement.

His accomplishments reveal a long career of professional success and a commitment to social progress. His continued engagement in education and community programs reflects his enduring dedication to helping others.

A Voice in Music and Leadership

He developed an exceptional ability to recognize and guide talented artists through Curb Records. The label became one of the nation’s most respected independent record companies. He was honored as Billboard’s Producer of the Year and produced several #1 hits, including well-known songs that reached the top of major charts. He also worked on many recordings that brought success to various musical styles and performers.

As a songwriter, he created music for many films, including one that produced his first Billboard Top 40 hits. He wrote and produced a popular theme song that became an international success for his group, which appeared weekly on national television. He also composed themes for major brands and television and film productions that became widely recognized.

Curb Records became a bridge connecting multiple genres of music. The label earned Billboard recognition for long-running hits and top-ranking albums. It produced recordings that debuted at #1 across different charts and songs that won major industry awards. Several of its releases sold millions of copies and became defining works for their time.

He also helped advance contemporary Christian music by signing and supporting key early artists. The label developed many award-winning performers whose songs achieved spiritual and widespread recognition.

In 2002, he became a partner and chairman of the oldest gospel label in the United States and completed its full purchase in 2016. The label continued to thrive with new generations of artists, receiving major honors, including a GRAMMY in 2021 for a historic anniversary album. In 2024, he served as executive producer for an award-winning film, and in 2025, the label received another GRAMMY for a chart-topping gospel song.

His balance of artistic creativity and business insight helped shape his reputation as one of the most influential figures in American music.

Public Service and Civic Responsibility

Alongside his success in entertainment, he pursued public service. He was elected Lieutenant Governor of California and, by court ruling, served as Acting Governor for over 200 days during his first two years in office. During that time, he made over 400 appointments and approved key legislation addressing energy shortages, burglary sentencing, and border relations. He also led responses to statewide emergencies such as major fires and floods. Later, he was elected National Chairman of the National Lieutenant Governors Association, representing members nationwide.

He was one of California’s early supporters of property tax reform, which inspired broader tax reduction efforts nationwide. His work contributed to important national economic policies and helped guide key legislative initiatives. He later served in a presidential administration as Chairman of national committees and boards, working on trade, immigration, and public service programs that benefited millions.

Philanthropy and Social Impact

After his time in government, he focused his efforts on philanthropy. Through the Curb Foundation, he supported initiatives in education, historic preservation, civil rights, and programs for underserved communities. His philosophy centers on the belief that personal achievement should be used to improve the lives of others.

He has remained committed to human and civil rights, helping expand opportunities for the underrepresented. His involvement goes beyond financial contributions, ensuring that the programs he supports create long-term and meaningful results.

Community Building and Educational Partnerships

Education has been one of his most significant priorities. He has established programs, colleges, and centers at 15 universities nationwide, promoting music, art, and cultural studies that prepare students for creative careers. The Curb College at Belmont University is the country’s largest stand-alone music business college, connected to a significant performance arena. The Curb Center at Vanderbilt University is known for its national programs supporting innovation and policy. The Mike Curb College of Arts, Media & Communication at California State University serves thousands of students and is tied to a performing arts venue established with his support.

He also created the Curb Institute at Rhodes College in Memphis, which connects local cultural landmarks, including a museum celebrating American music and a gallery dedicated to civil rights history. His partnerships extend across other universities throughout the country. In addition to education, his motorsports teams have achieved national recognition, winning multiple championships, including several Indianapolis 500 races.

He has also contributed to community housing and outreach projects. The Linda & Mike Curb Center for Women and the expanded Men’s Shelter in Nashville provide more than 250,000 square feet of space for needy individuals and families. The Curb Foundation supports homelessness reduction programs and initiatives serving underserved populations.

Lasting Influence and Recognition

His lifetime of work has been recognized through numerous honors, including a GRAMMY Award, stars on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Music City Walk of Fame, honorary degrees from five universities, and induction into several halls of fame.

Mike Curb of California represents leadership through creativity, service, and community dedication. His enduring influence across music, education, public service, and philanthropy exemplifies how success, when guided by purpose, can help improve lives and inspire future generations.