Biography
Dona Maria Abi Nader H. To a mom that called Andre and Dad that name Victor (born September 4, 1988) is a Lebanese-American singer-songwriter, composer, actress, author, entrepreneur, and music executive. She is known for her multilingual musical catalog and cross-cultural artistic approach. Dona Maria is a member of the Recording Academy (Grammy) and the Latin Recording Academy, and is the founder and CEO of DM the NO Music.
She has been featured by Billboard Magazine, FOX 5 San Diego, and Grammy-affiliated platforms, and was selected as an Artistic Mentor for Grammy U in 2024 and 2025.
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Infobox Data
Birth name: Dona Maria
Born: September 4, 1988
Nationality: Lebanese-American
Occupation: Singer-songwriter, composer, actress, author, entrepreneur
Years active: 2002–present
Genres: Pop, Latin pop, world music, hip hop fusion
Labels: DM the NO Music, EMI Records, Melody Music, Arabica Records
Spouse: Married
Children: 1
Early Life and Background
Dona Maria was born to Victor (father) and Andrea (mother). She has no siblings. She has Brazilian ancestry through her maternal grandfather in addition to her Lebanese heritage. From a young age, she showed interest in writing, storytelling, theater, and music.
Career
Writing and Early Artistic Work
At an early age, Dona Maria authored the book The Twin’s Secret, which achieved commercial success for two consecutive years. Her interest in storytelling later influenced her transition into theater and music.
Theater Career
In 2003, Dona Maria joined children’s theater and performed the role of Marguerite in the theatrical production Danielle De Barabark. Her performance gained media attention and led to interviews with magazines and television programs, helping establish her early public presence.
Music Career
Early Releases
Dona Maria officially launched her music career in 2007 with the bilingual singles “No Quiero” and “La Mosh Aayza”, released through EMI Records and Melody Music. The releases marked her entry into multilingual recording.
In 2012, she released “Puedo Olvidar” and “Kedah Hansak” through Arabica Records with radio and television promotion across Middle Eastern broadcasting platforms.
Continued Releases
In 2013, Dona Maria released “Palabras” and “Kalam Keteer”, both written and produced by the artist. The songs later appeared on her album Soy Lo Que Soy.
In 2017, following her relocation to the United States after marriage, she released “Escucha Mi” and “Esmaasni”, which reflected themes of migration, identity, and cultural transition.
Soy Lo Que Soy Album (2018)
In June 2018, Dona Maria released the multilingual album Soy Lo Que Soy (Akoun Mn Akoun / I’m What I Am), featuring eleven tracks written and composed by the artist. The album included Spanish and Arabic versions and explored themes of identity, empowerment, resilience, and self-acceptance.
Holiday Releases (2018)
In December 2018, Dona Maria released the Christmas single “Go Tell It”, following her earlier rendition of “Silent Night”. The releases marked her first holiday-themed recordings.
No More Tragedy (2019)
In 2019, Dona Maria released “No More Tragedy”, which was featured in the 62nd Grammy FYC Album campaign. The song was written following her recovery from a serious car accident that occurred on March 30, 2016, during which she remained in a coma for approximately 40 days. The single addressed themes of survival, healing, and emotional recovery.
Fire and Fuego (2022–2023)
Dona Maria released “Fire” in 2022 and “Fuego” in 2023, incorporating Latin rhythms and cross-cultural musical elements. The releases contributed to expanded media exposure, including interviews on FOX 5 San Diego and features in Billboard Magazine, where she discussed her creative process and artistic direction.
Tiktak Town (2021)
In 2021, Dona Maria released “Tiktak Town”, marking her debut in the hip-hop genre. The track incorporated satirical social commentary and featured a visual concept involving her clown character persona.
Faces / Caras (2023–2024)
Dona Maria released “Faces” and its Spanish version “Caras”, exploring themes of human interaction, emotional influence, and social behavior. The project emphasized the impact of personal encounters and interpersonal experiences.
Words (2024–2025)
In 2024, Dona Maria released “Words”, continuing her exploration of empowerment, emotional resilience, and personal growth. The song expanded her hip-hop and pop fusion style and focused on themes of self-reflection and transformation.
Grammy and Recording Academy Involvement
Dona Maria is an active member of the Recording Academy (Los Angeles Chapter) and the Latin Recording Academy. In 2024 and 2025, she was selected as an Artistic Mentor for Grammy U, supporting emerging artists through educational programs.
Business Ventures
Makeup Line
Dona Maria launched a makeup brand that expanded into major US retailers including Walmart, Target, and Macy’s. The brand focuses on inclusive beauty products designed for diverse skin tones and demographics. The product line is also available through her official website.
Musical Style and Influence
Dona Maria’s music blends Latin, Middle Eastern, pop, and hip-hop influences. She is known for releasing multilingual projects that emphasize empowerment, cultural unity, and artistic diversity. Her work frequently incorporates themes of resilience, identity, and social awareness.
Personal Life
Dona Maria is married and has one son. She currently resides in the United States.
Discography (Selected)
2007 — No Quiero, La Mosh Aayza
2009 — Mi Vida
2010 — L’immenista
2012 — Puedo Olvidar, Kedah Hansak
2013 — Palabras, Kalam Keteer
2016 — Te Amo Mi Amor
2017 — Escucha Mi, Esmaasni
2018 — Soy Lo Que Soy (Album)
2019 — No More Tragedy
2020 — Leer Tu Mente
2021 — Tiktak Town
2022 — Fire
2023 — Fuego, Faces / Caras
2024 — Words - 2026 THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS DALLAS, TEXAS
2025–2026 — Go
2026 THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS DALLAS, TEXAS
External Links
Official Website: https://www.dona-maria.net
Biography text from Last.fm, available under CC BY-SA.