The band formed in 1986 in New York City. A no-frills band heavy on tattoos, biker-band lyrics and leather, the band consisted of vocalist Alex Mitchell, guitar players Ricky Mahler and Gary Sunshine, bassist Craymore Stevens, and drummer Ryan Maher. The group played in New York for several years until they were signed by RCA Records. Around 1990, Gary Sunshine switched to guitar, and Zowie joined as bassist. In 1990, Circus of Power got a huge break, being named as the lone opening band (for the complete tour) opening for Black Sabbath on their Tyr album.

Zowie was replaced by Marc 'Frap' Frappier, and Mahler by Victor Indrizzo respectively. In 1991, the band signed to Columbia Records and relocated to Los Angeles. Circus of Power disbanded around 1995.