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

Picaresque heroano

ano “Picaresque Hero” Music Video

Singer-songwriter ano, who draws attention on variety shows with a unique personality and showcases multifaceted talents in band activities and acting, has released this digital single in January 2026.

The track was written as the opening theme for the anime TRIGUN STARGAZE, and it also made waves for being composed by DAIDAI of Paledusk.

Its lyrics portray a journey forward while bearing contradictions and impulses that aren’t just about justice—words that will likely resonate deeply with people whose emotions defy easy categorization.

Blending a propulsive, high-speed rock sound with ano’s distinctive vocals, it’s an energetic number that powerfully pushes listeners onward.

footprint(s)the peggies

the peggies "Ashiato" Music Video / Ashiato - Footprints – Music Video (TV Anime "My Hero Academia" Season 5 Ending Theme)

The peggies are a band that captivates listeners with down-to-earth lyrics and a robust rock sound.

Their single “Ashiato,” released in June 2021, was used as the ending theme for season 5 of the anime My Hero Academia.

Riding on an exhilarating guitar-rock sound, it’s a message song that affirms one’s imperfect self and sings of the will to move forward.

The melody line that lingers with the story’s afterglow and YUHO Kitazawa’s soaring vocals are truly moving.

Be sure to check out this anime song that gives you a push forward.

TEST MEchanmina

CHANMINA – TEST ME (Official Music Video)

Released for digital streaming in January 2026, this song was written as the opening theme for the third season of the anime Oshi no Ko.

Centered on the theme of “resentment,” its aggressive lyrics, which sound like a pep talk to oneself, hit hard through the repetition of provocative phrases.

Many listeners may feel that the tense atmosphere created by the beat—co-composed with Ryosuke “Dr.R” Sakai—deeply resonates with the work’s worldview.

With its seductive performances in a cabaret-set music video also drawing attention, this energetic track is perfect for moments when you want to fire yourself up.

Cold NightHANA

Cold Night

HANA’s “Cold Night” lets you feel a fierce strength—keeping an inner flame burning even while being battered by the cold night wind.

It’s a message song packed with resolve: even while carrying anxieties and loneliness that keep you from fully believing in yourself, you still take a step toward your dream.

Released as a single in January 2026, the track was chosen as the opening theme for season 2 of the TV anime Medalist, which depicts the world of figure skating.

Give it a listen on nights when you wish to change your reality or when you need to rally yourself.

Kill the NoiseSPYAIR

SPYAIR “Kill the Noise” Music Video (TV anime “Yuusha-kei ni Shosu” theme song)

Kill the Noise is a track that sets your heart ablaze with its exhilarating beats and powerful rock sound.

It was chosen as the theme song for the anime “Yuusha-kei ni Shosu: Chobatsu Yuusha 9004-tai Keimu Kiroku” (Punishing Brave: Disciplinary Warrior Unit 9004 Prison Records).

Brimming with fighting spirit and energy, the song voices a strong resolve: even while confronting heavy themes like sin and punishment, cut through your inner doubts and the noise around you, and move forward.

When you feel swayed by others’ opinions or want confidence in your own decisions, listen to this song to blow away the haze in your heart and take a bold new step.

Protect the Lightsupittsu

Spitz / Protect the Light

Released in October 2025 as a digital single—the first in about two and a half years—it serves as the opening theme for the TV anime SPY×FAMILY Season 3.

Masamune Kusano commented, “While it’s a work whose comical and cute depictions are fun, I wanted the song to face the sorrow that flows at the root of the story rather than run from it,” and true to his words, the sound beautifully captures a world where poignancy and hope intersect.

The rich arrangement, co-produced with Seiji Kameda, is also a highlight, with horn sections and organ adding vivid color.

It gently gives a push to the courage to protect what matters most.

Revolutionary JourneyAiNA THE END

AiNA THE END / On the Road of Revolution – On The Way × TV Anime 'Dandadan' [Collaboration Music Video]

The opening theme for season 2 of the popular TV anime Dandadan, known for its unique “occult × youth” world.

Written and composed by Aina The End, who, after her activities with BiSH, has shown a wide range of expression as a solo artist.

The interplay of high-velocity sound and mysterious melody is superb, perfectly matching the atmosphere of the work.

Centered on the theme of fighting to protect what’s precious while harboring a sentimental love, the song, paired with Aina The End’s edgy vocals, stirs the listener’s heart.

Released digitally in July 2025 and later issued on CD as her second single in September of the same year, it’s an upper-tune that will surely give you strength when you need courage to face something.