Two-time IBMA Guitar Player of the Year, Jim Hurst will likely be the first solo act to ever grace the main Joe Val stage. But it’s a performance that you MUST see. His solo show simply blew everyone away at the IBMA conference last fall. Formerly the guitarist for Claire Lynch, Jim Hurst is one of the best in the business. March Shatz said that “Jim Hurst is one of the most versatile and tasteful guitar players I know. Whether he’s flailing the rhythm for an old time fiddle tune, laying down a funky groove, or finger picking a beautiful ballad, his playing is both impeccable and creative.  Accompanying this instrumental virtuosity is a rich and expressive voice with a surprising range.”  His solo show, which allows his personal style and unique creativity to come through in spades, is what keeps his audiences mesmerized.