Hirt was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, to a musician father and a homemaker mother. He began playing the trumpet at the age of six, and by the time he was in high school, he was playing professionally in local clubs. After serving in the United States Navy during World War II, Hirt returned to New Orleans and resumed his music career.
In 1950, Hirt joined the band of trumpeter Louis Prima, and he toured with Prima for several years. In 1957, Hirt left Prima's band and formed his own group. He quickly became one of the most popular jazz trumpeters in the world, and he recorded a number of hit albums.
In addition to his music career, Hirt was also a successful television personality. He hosted his own variety show, "The Al Hirt Show," from 1964 to 1968. He also appeared on numerous other television shows, including "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson", "The Ed Sullivan Show," and "The Merv Griffin Show."
Hirt died of cancer in New Orleans in 1999. He was 76 years old.