In anticipation of UB's return to Division I athletics, a marching band was formed in 1999 and named, "Thunder of the East."

The Thunder of the East is currently led by James E. Mauck; and performs at UB's Buffalo Bulls home football games, as well as in other musical venues.

[11][12] At that time, performances were limited to a few concerts, and marching during the school's football games.

[11][12] They also played concerts around the area, including one in Kleinhans Music Hall, home of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

[11][12] The university joined the SUNY system in 1962, eventually leading to the elimination of the football team and with it the need for a marching band.

[11][12] In 1981, a small group of students created a pep band for the then Division III football team.

[11][12][13] In 2000, the band began its second season with new uniforms and new words to Victory March written by Mols, the original composer.

In the fall of 2001, the band made its first road trip in nearly 30 years to West Point to cheer on the Buffalo Bulls at Army's Michie Stadium.

[11] Members of the Thunder of the East arrive one week prior to the start of UB's fall semester.

During the week of Fun in the Sun, members are taught the marching style of the Thunder of the East, fitted for uniforms, and begin to learn that season's music and field show.

The drum majors for the Thunder of the East are the on-field commanders of the band, responsible for instructing proper marching technique and rehearsal etiquette.

Drum majors are chosen by the director after a series of auditions, held in the spring semester.

The current drum majors for the 2024 season are Matthew Gonzalez, Timothy Washington, and Earl Robert "Robbie" Kipler.

In 2008, the band followed the Bulls on their historic run to the MAC Championship and their first-ever Bowl Game.

In 2022, the band performed at halftime at the Buffalo Bills' home opener against the Tennessee Titans, then again in 2023 against the Las Vegas Raiders The band starts game day by warming up and performing a pre-game concert in front of Slee Hall, the university's concert hall.

The band then marches down the road, playing in parade formation, to UB Stadium where it will perform at 1–2 different tailgate parties and the Blue and White Club.

At halftime, the band performs its show facing the home crowd on the west side of the stadium.

After the performance, the band returns to the stands to again join the crowd cheering on the Bulls.

After the game, the band performs its halftime show facing the east side of the stadium, consisting mostly of students.

Recent trips include: In the early 2010s, the Thunder of the East wore uniforms consisting of the below: 1.

White gloves When weather conditions are poor, the Thunder of the East may wear long, black raincoats that extend past the knees.

Verse 3: Our friends we've made with ties that bind; A union of our spirit heart and mind.