Kenneth Daniel Ball, known as Kenny Ball, was born on May 22, 1930, in Ilford, Essex, England. He became a prominent figure in the jazz music scene, particularly known for his work as a trumpeter, vocalist, and bandleader of the traditional jazz group Kenny Ball and His Jazzmen. Ball's career began as a sideman in various bands while working at an advertising agency. In 1953, he transitioned to a full-time musician, playing with notable British jazz bands led by Sid Phillips, Charlie Galbraith, Eric Delaney, and Terry Lightfoot.

In 1958, Ball formed his own band, Kenny Ball and His Jazzmen, which played a significant role in the early 1960s UK jazz revival. The band achieved widespread popularity with their energetic performances and catchy arrangements. Their recording of "Midnight in Moscow" became a global sensation, reaching No. 2 on both the UK Singles Chart and the US Hot 100, selling over a million copies and earning a gold disc. The band also had other hits such as "Samantha" and "March of the Siamese Children."

Kenny Ball and His Jazzmen were fixtures on BBC radio and television, and they appeared in the 1962 British musical film It's Trad, Dad! Ball's band was one of the few traditional jazz groups to maintain long-term success, rivaling contemporaries like Acker Bilk and Chris Barber. Their collaborative album, The Best of Ball, Barber and Bilk, topped the UK Albums Chart.

Ball's influence extended beyond the UK, as he was awarded honorary citizenship of New Orleans in 1963. He continued to perform and record music until his death on March 7, 2013, in Basildon, Essex, England, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in the trad jazz movement. His band continued under the leadership of his son, Keith Ball.