Ernie Ball (1930–2004) was an American musician and entrepreneur who revolutionized guitar strings and built influential instrument companies.

Ball began as a steel guitarist and West Coast session player before opening one of America's first guitar-only retail shops in Tarzana, California. Frustrated by heavy-gauge strings, he introduced Slinky sets — lighter, more flexible string packs that made bending and lead playing easier. «Slinky» became the industry's best-selling string brand.

In 1974 Ball acquired the Music Man company and developed iconic basses and guitars including the StingRay bass with active electronics and distinctive humbucker tone, favored by Louis Johnson, Flea, and countless funk and rock players. Music Man instruments emphasized playability and consistent factory setup.

Ernie Ball Inc. remains family-run, producing strings, accessories, and Music Man instruments that define professional-grade guitar infrastructure worldwide.

Notable products: Ernie Ball Slinky strings, Music Man StingRay bass, Music Man guitars.