I Am the Air Guitar International Titleholder

When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, country-level contests have been staged all across the world, with the titleholders converging in Oulu annually.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in the town square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to win this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Participants have 60 seconds to put their all – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. Adjudicators rate you on a point range from a specific numeric range. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs prepared enough to jump, my digits fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my back set for those bends and jumps. Once the big day dawned, I could feel the song in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was moment for an air-off. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so eager to play again. When they announced I’d won, the venue erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then all present started performing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – AKA Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I wept. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a true way of life. People come from many countries, and each person is supportive and encouraging. Prior to performing, each contestant shows support. Then for a brief period you’re able to be free, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and musician in a band with my sibling called the group title, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I direct independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it brings more creative work. Oulu will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”