They were the second band to receive national airplay with a surf instrumental, after The Marketts, with their song "Bustin' Surfboards", released on Aertaun Records in 1962.
Members as of 2007 (including four members of the original band) were brothers Gerald (bass) and Norman "Roly" Sanders (lead guitar), their cousin Jesse Sanders (rhythm guitar), Leonard Delaney (May 18, 1943 – October 5, 2014; drums)[2] and Joel Willenbring (saxophone).
The 2006 Crossfire Publications CD Charge Of The Tornadoes featured more of their 1960s masters and Zappanale performances.
During a conversation with Crossfire Publications head, Greg Russo, on July 13, 2014, Tornadoes leader Gerald Sanders confirmed that the band was still active.
Former band member Leonard Delaney died on October 5, 2014, aged 71, in San Bernardino, California, from complications of Alzheimer's disease.