[2026] Recommended Anisongs for Middle Schoolers: Theme Songs and Insert Songs from Popular Anime

sad and happyFurederikku

A song by Frederic that vividly portrays complex emotions.

Released in October 2017 as the opening theme for the anime “Love and Lies,” it shook the hearts of many middle school students.

The lyrics, where joy and sorrow intersect, feel like snapshots of youthful days.

The melody, skillfully expressing wavering feelings, resonates deeply with listeners.

Sing it at a school festival or choir contest, and it will surely become an unforgettable memory.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to keep chasing your dreams, even while holding anxieties about the future.

In that casemakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Empitsu "Saraba" Music Video

It’s a striking song where wistfulness and passion blend together.

Created by Macaroni Enpitsu, it was released in January 2025 and chosen as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime “Ao no Hako.” The youthful lyrics, vividly expressing powerful feelings about love, resonate deeply.

Its emotional guitar sound is another highlight, gripping your heart.

I think it’s a song that empathizes with those struggling in love and gives them the courage to move forward.

MONTAGENakajima Kento

Kento Nakajima “MONTAGE” Music Video [TV Anime “The After-Dinner Mysteries” Opening Theme]

I’m drawn to its grand sense of scale and refined sound.

“MONTAGE” was released in May 2025 and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “The After-Dinner Mysteries.” The composition is by Hiroyuki Sawano, known for works like “Attack on Titan” and “Mobile Suit Gundam.” The fusion of a mysterious atmosphere with a danceable rhythm is striking, and Kento Nakajima’s expressively rich vocals are another highlight.

The thrilling melody that echoes the anime’s story is superb as well.

Be sure to listen closely and immerse yourself in its world.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

Released in January 2025, Kenshi Yonezu’s new song was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Medalist.

Set in the world of figure skating, the track features lyrics that closely mirror the story of a coach who has experienced setbacks and a girl embarking on the path she admires, supporting each other as they aim higher.

Using the bow and arrow—items that rely on one another—as symbolic motifs, it deftly portrays the two of them advancing toward their dream in step.

The anecdote that Yonezu, a fan of the original manga, personally offered to create the song also shows his deep attachment to the work.

It’s sure to give you a powerful push on your back as you spread your wings toward a new goal.

PlasmaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Plazma

The world of Kenshi Yonezu woven from imaginative melodies and innovative electronic sounds.

Set against the backdrop of space, this work—depicting life’s choices and fateful encounters—was released in January 2025 as the theme song for the animated film “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-.” It carries Yonezu’s signature delicate sensibility and straightforward passion, familiar from albums like “diorama” and “BOOTLEG.” Alongside its high-energy musicality, the lyrics powerfully convey the courage to step into new worlds and the drive to face the unknown, leaving a deep impression.

It’s a song I especially recommend to younger listeners who are determined to forge their own path.

PlazmaYonezu Kenshi

Plazma

It’s a work with a grand world-building and a profound message.

It’s a song by Kenshi Yonezu, released in January 2025 as the theme for the theatrical anime Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-.

The lyrics center on challenge and hope, paired with energetic musicality.

It’s crafted to resonate with themes the Mobile Suit Gundam series has explored over the years—war and peace, and personal struggle.

If you’re striving to keep looking forward amid days of conflict, give it a listen.

Kinnikuman HeroEndō Masaaki

Kinnikuman Hero – Masaaki Endoh | Official Audio

With his powerful vocals that stir the soul, Masaaki Endoh pours his passion into a heartfelt cry from the spirit.

It brilliantly portrays a hero who stands firm in justice and friendship, powerfully expressing blazing fighting spirit and bonds with comrades.

The brassy resonance and drum’n’bass beat add even more excitement to stunning effect.

Released in January 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc Season 2,” the song is written and composed by APAZZI.

It’s a track I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who wants to etch a tale of indomitable spirit and friendship in their heart, and to those seeking the courage to face adversity.