"Thunder Power": The Classic Rock Anthem That Still Roars in Trenton

How a Trenton Season Ticket Holder and a Bon Jovi Alum Created the Team's Enduring Theme Song

Every great team has a signature sound, and for your Trenton Thunder, that sound is the unmistakable guitar riff and powerful chorus of "Thunder Power." More than just a theme song, this song is a piece of franchise history, connecting the team's earliest days in 1994 to the roar of the crowd you still hear throughout Trenton Thunder Ballpark.

The song was born in the Thunder's inaugural season of 1994, thanks to the passion and talent of season ticket holder Fran Kowalski. Kowalski was a renowned producer and songwriter right here in Trenton. His dedication to the team was clear as he crafted "Thunder Power" to give the newly formed franchise a truly electric soundtrack.

But a great song needs a great voice and guitar, and for that, Kowalski enlisted some serious New Jersey talent. The track is performed by native New Jersey guitarist and vocalist Bob Bandiera. If that name sounds familiar, it's because Bandiera has a rock-and-roll pedigree that runs deep: he was a touring member of Bon Jovi and is currently the guitarist for the legendary Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes. He's even taken the stage alongside Bruce Springsteen throughout his career. Bandiera's powerful performance is what gives "Thunder Power" its classic rock, stadium-ready feel.

Kowalski's connection to the team didn't end with the song. He went on to co-found Sound & Video Creations, Inc. and the revolutionary Click Effects brand of live entertainment computer software, of which the Thunder was one of the first clients.

Though Fran Kowalski passed away in October of 2014, his legacy is alive and well every time the Thunder takes the field. "Thunder Power" can still be heard over the PA system periodically at the ballpark, a vibrant tribute to the man who gave the team its original anthem. It's a fun blast from the past for long-time fans and a great way for new fans to connect with the team's rich history.

So, the next time you hear that familiar guitar lick, take a moment to appreciate the enduring "Thunder Power" - the rocking spirit of Trenton baseball, brought to life by local legends.