Jim Hurst

Jim Hurst’s unique picking style and mastery of bluegrass guitar wows audiences and is revered by both novice guitar players and his musical peers.   His eclectic career has made him a remarkable performer, an experienced instructor and a highly sought after session musician.  His affability and gregariousness make him one of the most approachable musicians of his caliber.

The product of a musical family, Jim honed his musical style after being influenced by the likes of Tony Rice, Clarence White and Jerry Reed.  He got national exposure with Holly Dunn’s Rio Band playing acoustic guitar and mandolin, and singing harmonies; followed by several high profile television and radio appearances while touring with Trisha Yearwood playing acoustic and electric guitar, and harmony vocals.  Jim also experienced performances and recording with Sara Evans.

Itching to play more bluegrass, Jim joined the Grammy-nominated Claire Lynch and her Front Porch String Band in 1995 where he teamed up with kindred spirit bassist Missy Raines.  While with Claire Lynch, Missy and Jim formed a duet, creating ground-breaking arrangements.  They earned IBMA Guitar and Bass Player of the Year awards for 2001 and 2002.

Wanting to pursue greater artistic freedom, Jim left the Claire Lynch Band in 2010 to embark on a solo career.  With three solo works to his credit, Open Window, Second Son, and his latest 2007 release, A Box of Chocolates, Jim’s virtuosity shines as he consistently sways audiences with his deft finger work and smooth vocals.  Jim performs his show full time and teaches at guitar workshops and music camps in North America and Europe.   While he occasionally collaborates with other bluegrass greats, notably David Grisman, and Rob Ickes, his solo performance is what keeps audiences mesmerized.

What others are saying about Jim Hurst:

"Jim is one of the most under-rated musicians on today's acoustic scene. He always mines a deep grove and heats things up to a rolling boil. Combining strong country and bluegrass roots, subtle invention, and a big beautiful sound. Jim's music is consistently fresh and friendly."  - Tim O'Brien

"Jim uses his family background, along with his exceptional talent, to build upon a foundation of his own memories and inspiration to create a contemporary sound that is still able to reflect strong traditional values... Jim Hurst is a very hard-working musician with clear goals for himself."  - Country Review

"In a field known for great instrumental work, Hurst is as good as they come...His guitar playing is marked by pure abandon."  - Country Standard Time

Jim proudly endorses the following products:

D'Addario Strings
Fishman Transducers
Rockbridge Guitars
First Quality Musical Supplies
Gibson USA

Jim also proudly plays Gallagher Guitars - Look for the brand new "Jim Hurst" model Gallagher !