Brief
HALCALI reunite after 14‑year gap as 2003 track goes viral overseas
The duo said the unexpected streaming surge prompted a new release and a comeback interview.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Japanese electronic duo HALCALI, consisting of HALCA and YUCALI, spoke with Billboard Japan about their first interview in 14 years after their 2003 track “Otsukare SUMMER” went viral overseas, the outlet reported on September 29, 2026.
HALCA said a label employee first alerted her to rising streaming numbers, prompting a surprise LINE message about the song’s “blowing up” play count. YUCALI recalled initially thinking the news was “someone else’s” and texting HALCA that it felt “strange.” Both described seeing social‑media feeds filled with people dancing to the track as the moment they realized its worldwide reach.
The duo noted that “Otsukare SUMMER” was never a single and had no music video, yet it remained a staple in their summer setlists. They expressed pride that the song still resonates, especially now that streaming lets global listeners discover older tracks without buying the original album.
HALCALI announced a new song release scheduled for September 2, marking their official return to recording after the viral resurgence.
Key facts
- HALCALI’s 2003 track “Otsukare SUMMER” went viral overseas in 2026. (billboard.com)
- The duo’s first interview in 14 years was conducted by Billboard Japan. (billboard.com)
- HALCALI released a new song on September 2, 2026. (billboard.com)
Sources
- [1] billboard.com — originally reported as “HALCALI Talk ‘Otsukare SUMMER’ Going Viral & Returning to Music after a 14-Year ‘Career Gap’: Billboard Japan Women in Music Interview”
