Marlisa signs up with Star Music-Tarsier Records

MARLISAAnn Punzalan, or simply known as Marlisa, made Filipinos proud when she emerged as the youngest and first Filipino winner of “X- Factor Australia” in 2014 at 15 years old.

Mentored by Boyzone member Ronan Keating from the Under 25 Girls Category, part of her prize was a recording contract with Sony Music Australia. Her finals piece “Stand by You” debuted at No. 2 on the ARIA Singles Charts and was certified platinum by the Australian Recording Industry Association.

Following her maiden single was the release of her self-titled album “Marlisa,” which was immediately No. 6 on its ARIA Albums Chart launch. Certified gold, “Stand by You” was 2015 Song of the Year on the same platform. In May 2016, Marlisa signed up with EMA Limited, with Ronan and Storm Keating as her managers.

After the release of her succeeding singles “Unstoppable” and “Forever Young,” which followed her debut album, not much has been heard from the artist since then since. Speculations that the Australian- born Filipina had been dropped by her label quickly surfaced.

Now 18 years old and back in her country of origin, Marlisa has signed up with Star Music and Tarsier Records, ABS- CBN’s international platform, to explore the global market. In June, she finally released her new single “Thank You,” a track produced by Kidwolf, composed by Khael Lopez, to which she added a few personal touches.

Music Geek had an exclusive email interview with the Filipino-Australian international singer-songwriter for updates and why she decided to continue her music career in her parents’ home country.

What made you decide to come back to the Philippines to pursue a singing career? Are you still signed with your Australian label Sony Music?

I came back to the Philippines because singing is my passion, and I’d like to pursue it. I am now with Star Music Philippines, because Ronan Keating, my mentor from the X- Factor Australia, mutually agreed with Sony Music that pursuing a career in Asia, would be best, starting in the Philippines.

What is the difference between the music scene in Australia and the Philippines?

The Philippines is very passionate about the entertainment industry, and I think Australia is more passionate regarding sports and leisure. To whom do you dedicate your latest single, Thank You?

I’d like to dedicate the song Thank You to all who are experiencing first love and its challenges, and also would like to voice out that there is hope, in finding that special someone. How does it feel to be signed by Star Music locally?

I am extremely happy to be signed with Star Music and Tarsier Records [the label’s international wing] and am grateful that I have been given a chance to release music again. It is exciting because I get to meet new people in the industry, mostly people who are within my age bracket, and who share the same passion.

Is there also a difference on the recording process here and in Australia?

The recording processes are very similar here and in Australia.

How does it feel that many Filipinos are proud of you being a winner of X-Factor Australia?

I am extremely grateful for the support of Pinoys all around the world, and would like to thank them all, especially my loyal followers #MarlisAngels, who have been with me since Day 1. Also, of course to my new followers, and my family.

What have you learned from the music industry – from your X-Factor stint,

after winning up to now?

From my X-Factor stint up until now, I have learnt that nothing is impossible, especially with our Lord God, who always provides and is merciful. I’ve also learnt that it is crucial to never give up, and that it is always best to follow your heart and speak your mind.

What is the most important lesson you have learned from your X-Factor Australia mentor Ronan Keating?

The most important lesson I’ve learnt from my X-Factor Australia mentor Ronan Keating is to sing from the heart.

After Thank You, any plans for an EP or a album?

I will be releasing a new track shortly, under Tarsier Records. It will be a collaboration project with Moophs, and I will also be releasing a full album, mostly consisting of songs I have composed independently.

Will we be hearing a Tagalog single from you?

I am currently working on the tracks of my album, and there will be a duet of which will contain Taglish content.

Any Pinoy singers you would like to collaborate with in the future? How about international singers?

I would like to collaborate with KZ Tandingan, because I think it would be cool to collaborate with another X-Factor winner. Internationally, I would like to collaborate with Ariana Grande.

What has been the most special thing that X Factor has brought you?

The most special thing that my X-Factor win has brought me is the realization of my dreams, the opportunity to travel and explore many possibilities, such as being signed with Star Music.

What are the adjustments you have to make being based here?

The adjustments I have had to make include moving in to a new environment in Manila, learning Tagalog, meeting new people and adapting to a new different way of life.

What keeps you grounded?

What keeps me grounded is my faith in the Lord, my family and supporters all around the world. Who are your musical influences? My musical influences include Sam Smith and Sia. I believe my genre is more inclined towards pop ballads.

How does it feel to have started in the music business at such a young age? Did you feel overwhelmed at times?

It was definitely a challenge to start the music business at 13, and there were a lot of miraculous events which made me feel overwhelmed. Overall, I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been a part of my journey, and hope to be an inspiration to many. Anything you would like to add about yourself and your music?

I am very excited to release new original compositions, which will be mostly included in my upcoming album. Any message to your supporters? I just wanna say a huge thank you again, to ABS- CBN, the Star Music family, The Tarsier family, my family, and to all my supporters, especially the #MarlisAngels for believing in me. Mahalko pokayonglahat and hope you enjoy my new music!