Curtis was born in Cross Plains, Texas. His talent was discovered early in his life and he became a regular featured act on local television in Abilene, Texas. “The Bill Fox Show” featured local and regional talent and Curtis became one of the most popular entertainers on that program. At the age of 16, Curtis was given his own television show and was also a regular feature on the “Slim Willet Show.” Slim had garnered a hit with “Don’t Let The Stars Get In Your Eyes.” Slim also took Curtis on several personal appearances helping to get his foot in the door on the Texas Dance Hall circuit.