In 1962, veteran musician and guitar teacher Ernie Ball created Slinky® Strings, the innovative light-gauge electric guitar strings that forever changed the way players approached their instruments. Widely revered by thousands of iconic artists including Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, Paul McCartney, Metallica, Brad Paisley, Slash, John Petrucci, Angus Young, and John Mayer, Slinkys have become the industry standard for tone, performance, and reliability. Each set is proudly crafted in Coachella, California, using precision manufacturing and the highest quality materials.

Beyond strings, Ernie Ball offers a complete range of state-of-the-art instrument accessories, including cables, straps, pedals, and power solutions—available in more than 6,000 stores across the U.S. and distributed in over 120 countries worldwide.

In 1984, Ernie’s son Sterling Ball officially acquired the Music Man® company, originally founded in 1974 by Tom Walker, Forrest White, and Leo Fender. Joined later by his sons Scott and Brian, Sterling built a team of dedicated professionals based in San Luis Obispo, California, united by a common goal: crafting the finest hand-built instruments available.

Music Man earned its reputation as an industry innovator by introducing active electronics to production instruments. During his early years with the company in the 1970s, Sterling Ball played an integral role in the design and development of the legendary StingRay bass, a model that remains one of the most celebrated instruments in music history.

The family-run company continues to honor its founder’s dedication to enhancing the musician’s playing experience and delivering superior sound quality through ongoing innovation. From Paradigm Slinkys, Cobalt Slinkys, M-Steel, Earthwood, and Bell Bronze strings to the revolutionary Element Shield Packaging, every product reflects the brand’s commitment to performance and freshness.

Ernie Ball also champions artist development through its musician-focused programs, including the world’s largest and longest-running unsigned artist competition, where emerging bands compete for opportunities to perform on national tours, festivals, and major live events.

Visit www.ernieball.com and www.music-man.com to learn more.