I Became the Air Guitar World Champion

When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, dad sorted the music. Ever since, national championships have been held globally, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu annually.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was resolved.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I performed my act to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to win this year.

Our global network is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Competitors have a short window to put their all – high-powered performance, perfect mime, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. Judges score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Preparation is everything. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs flexible enough to jump, my digits fast enough to copy riffs and my back set for those moves and leaps. By the time the big day came, I could sense the music in my being.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the square erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then the crowd started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. A former champion – also known as his performer title – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

Our global network is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. People come from globally, and each person is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, all participants shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be free, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and musician in a musical act with my family member called the Southgates, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. The city will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I want to do that.”