Donna McDaniel was born in Buffalo, New York, and attended North Tonawanda Senior High School, Class of 1972. She made her film debut in Geri Dönen Ölü (1983) before appearing in the cult classics Kolejli Kız (1983) and Hollywood Hot Tubs (1984). Donna performed many songs on the soundtrack for Hollywood Hot Tubs (1984) and went on to a successful career as a backup singer for several musical acts including Billy Idol. Along with Guy Thomas, she performed the song "Let's Pretend (That It's The First Time)" for the soundtrack of Rich Girl (1991).

Donna has a younger sister, Debra.