United States · Est. 1971
Music Man
Ernie Ball Music Man guitars set the standard for player-focused design, combining California craftsmanship with signature models from the world's best guitarists.
About the brand
Music Man was founded in 1971 by Forrest White and Tom Walker, with Leo Fender as a key consultant. The brand produced innovative basses and guitars through the 1970s before being sold to Ernie Ball in 1984, becoming Ernie Ball Music Man.
Under Ernie Ball's ownership, Music Man has built a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship at its San Luis Obispo, California factory. The guitar lineup is driven by artist collaboration: the John Petrucci JP series, the Steve Lukather Luke model, the St. Vincent signature, and the Mateus Asato model each reflect the exact specifications demanded by world-class players.
Music Man's build philosophy prioritises playability above all else: comfortable neck profiles, precision fretwork, reliable electronics, and hardware that stays in tune under professional use. The brand occupies a unique premium niche — not a vintage reissue brand, not a budget brand, but an original American voice in guitar manufacturing.
Key facts
- Founded in 1971 with Leo Fender as a key consultant
- Built in San Luis Obispo, California — genuine American craftsmanship
- John Petrucci JP series and St. Vincent model are genre-defining signature guitars
- Mateus Asato signature brought the brand to millions of new players
Iconic models
Music Man StingRay
A revolutionary electric bass co-founded by Leo Fender, with its powerful active humbucker that redefined modern bass tone.
Music Man Luke
Steve Lukather's signature guitar, with its exclusive active/passive circuit and ergonomic body that became a studio rock benchmark.
Music Man JP6
John Petrucci's first signature guitar, which established the lasting collaboration between the Dream Theater guitarist and the California brand.
Music Man Cutlass
Music Man's take on the classic Stratocaster, with ergonomic and electronic improvements that elevate it above the guitar that inspired it.