Born in Saratoga Springs, New York, Donnelly is based in  Philadelphia. In November 2007 Donnelly began playing with keyboardist Terry Adams, a founder of NRBQ, in the Terry Adams Rock & Roll Quartet. Adams rechristened the band NRBQ in March 2011.
Donnelly originated from Saratoga Springs, New York, and is now situated in Philadelphia. In November 2007 Donnelly joined forces with Terry Adams, a key figure in NRBQ, in the Terry Adams Rock & Roll Quartet. Adams subsequently rechristened the band NRBQ in March 2011.