Robert Leslie III Hurst is a renowned American jazz bassist, composer, and educator. He was born on September 4, 1964, in Detroit, Michigan, to a family of musicians. His father, Robert Hurst Sr., was a jazz trumpeter, and his mother, Barbara Hurst, was a classical pianist. Growing up in a musical household, Hurst was exposed to various genres of music, including jazz, classical, and R&B. Hurst began playing the bass at the age of eight and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. He attended Cass Technical High School in Detroit, where he studied with renowned jazz bassist Marcus Belgrave. After graduating from high school, Hurst attended the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, where he continued to hone his skills as a bassist. In 1983, Hurst enrolled at the University of Michigan, where he studied with jazz bassist Rodney Whitaker. During his time at the university, Hurst became a member of the jazz ensemble and performed with several renowned jazz musicians, including Dizzy Gillespie, Wynton Marsalis, and Betty Carter. After graduating from the University of Michigan in 1987, Hurst moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He quickly established himself as a sought-after bassist and began performing with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Branford Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, and Tony Williams. In 1992, Hurst joined the band of legendary jazz pianist Herbie Hancock. He spent over a decade with Hancock's band, performing on several of his albums, including "The New Standard" and "Gershwin's World." Hurst's work with Hancock earned him critical acclaim and established him as one of the top bassists in jazz. In addition to his work with Hancock, Hurst has also performed with several other jazz legends, including Wayne Shorter, Sting, and Diana Krall. He has also released several albums as a bandleader, including "Robert Hurst Presents: Robert Hurst" and "One for Namesake." Hurst's contributions to jazz have not gone unnoticed. He has been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Jazz Instrumental Solo for his work on Hancock's album "Gershwin's World." In 2010, he was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. In addition to his work as a performer, Hurst is also an accomplished educator. He has taught at several universities, including the University of Michigan, the University of Southern California, and the Berklee College of Music. He has also conducted masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians. In conclusion, Robert Leslie III Hurst is a highly respected jazz bassist, composer, and educator. His contributions to jazz have earned him critical acclaim and established him as one of the top bassists in the genre. His work with Herbie Hancock and other jazz legends has left an indelible mark on the music world, and his dedication to education ensures that his legacy will continue for generations to come.

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