Isabela Merced is known for lighting up the big screen, from her adventurous turn as Dora the Explorer to her impactful role in The Last of Us. Soon, she’ll even take flight as Hawkgirl in the new Superman movie. But this talented star is now turning back to something that truly moves her: music. She’s launching a new project that blends tropical beats, cultural identity, and a deep, heartfelt connection to her Peruvian roots.
At just 23 years old, Merced is thrilled to announce her single "Apocalipsis (salsa version)," arriving on August 15. This vibrant, Latin-flavored track breathes new life into one of her earlier songs. She’s not alone on this journey; she teamed up with Tony Succar, the first Peruvian producer to win a US Grammy Award.
Merced shared her excitement about this personal venture during an exclusive chat with Us Weekly en Español. She explained that Succar invited her to join his new musical effort right after his big Grammy win. "‘Apocalipsis’ was a song I had already created," she noted, "but this new take sounds completely different. It’s salsa, it’s tropical, and it truly represents both of us."
The original "Apocalipsis" came out in 2020. Isabela wrote and produced it alongside her brother, Gyovanni Moner. Now, it has morphed into a powerful Latin anthem, mixing salsa with pop. It’s a clear nod to her shared Peruvian heritage. Succar, known for his fresh approach to Latin music, brought his signature energy to the track. He blended classic salsa instruments with modern sounds, creating a high-energy display of Latin art recorded between Miami and Los Angeles.
Tony Succar himself described the song in a press statement. “‘Apocalipsis’ is pure fire—a connection so strong it feels like the world could end," he said. "We wanted to capture that feeling in a rhythm that makes you move, but also feel deeply. Working with Isabela has been amazing; she’s an artist who understands how to mix sounds and truly respects her background."
A Music Video with Her Own Vision
The music video for "Apocalipsis" was filmed in Miami. Isabela had a lot of creative input, even learning the entire dance routine incredibly fast. "I picked up the choreography in an hour and a half," she shared. "Then I spent the whole day at the F1 race. We shot the video the very next day. But I knew exactly what I wanted, and Danny [the director] gave me complete freedom. He told me, ‘Whatever you need, I’m here.’ That was the best part of the whole process."
This hands-on creative control helped Isabela reconnect with her singing side. Her musical path had been quiet since her 2020 EP, The Better Half of Me, which also explored pop and Latin rhythms.
Proud of Her Peruvian Roots
Isabela’s collaborations, especially with artists like Tony Succar, are not by chance. They show her deep bond with Peru, her mother’s homeland. Peru is a constant source of inspiration for her. "Every time I go to Peru, I feel at peace," she explained warmly. "It’s a simple, spiritual country full of talent. I go at least twice a year. Now that I’m working more in that region, my big dream is to work with more Peruvian artists and help them get noticed in Hollywood."
Merced believes the creative world would greatly benefit from the spiritual and grounded outlook she finds in Peruvian people. "All the Peruvians I’ve met are very connected, very centered individuals," she commented. "And that would really help this industry."
A Journey of Growth
Even with her acting career soaring, especially with the upcoming Superman film, Isabela doesn’t see music and acting as separate paths. For her, both talents feed each other. They are part of a bigger artistic vision she hopes to keep expanding.
"Returning to music makes me feel more complete," she concluded. "I want to show off my skills live, not just stay in the studio or on screen. I’m really looking forward to what’s next."
With "Apocalipsis (salsa version)," Isabela Merced isn’t just proving she’s a multi-talented artist. She’s also showing her dedication to honoring and celebrating her culture. Starting August 15, the world will get to see—and hear—her shine from a more genuine place than ever before.
"Apocalipsis" will be available on all digital music platforms starting August 15.