New York-based artist Elle Marie releases 'Paglaya'

New York-based Filipina artist, Marielle Catacutan also known as Elle Marie, is debuting her latest single "Paglaya" with GMA Music

Composed by Elle Marie, arranged by Joseph Cruz, with sound mixing by Emil Dela Rosa, and produced by Joseph Cruz with GMA Music, "Paglaya" is a nostalgic ballad that speaks of physically letting go while reminiscing about the past.

"This song is about remembering the good times we've had with our loved ones and cherishing everything. Their memories remain and should be appreciated all the time," Elle Marie said.

Despite always being a music lover by heart, Elle Marie was already a nurse in Dubai when she pursued her passion for music.

"Ever since I was a child, I loved music. I grew up watching Do Re Mi and listening to Donna Cruz, Regine Velasquez, Mikee Cojuangco, and, of course, Lea Salonga.

"I would sing at family events. I worked in Dubai as a nurse, and I met some friends who wrote songs and they encouraged me to try songwriting, that's how it really started."

Elle Marie credits her musical talent to her late father, who was skilled in various instruments.

"My late dad really loved music, he played almost all instruments, like the piano, the guitar, bass...he really inspired me."

Elle Marie recalled how her father led her to finding a way to record music. "Eleven years ago randomly I was just playing my music at home and my dad and his friends were outside. 

"One of them asked if I was playing my own song, I said yes, they asked me if I wanted to send my song to music labels in the Philippines. Fortunately, GMA Music was the first to respond, and I just went ahead with it."

Currently, Elle Marie is living in New York City and co-owns Skin Loft NY, a health spa in Manhattan. As she continues her journey abroad, she hopes to share her music to her fellow Filipinos and possibly perform in the country one day.

"It's one of my dreams to actually play there in the Philippines."

Watch: Kapuso Showbiz News: NYC-based Filipino artist Elle Marie releases "Paglaya" with GMA Music