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Back when I was 10, I read about a article in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been held in many nations, with the winners gathering in Oulu each August.

At the time, I asked my parents if I could participate. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the first band I found independently. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in the town square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to win this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Judges rate you on a point range from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you improvise.

Preparation is everything. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body loose enough to jump, my fingers fast enough to mimic solos and my upper body prepared for those bends and jumps. When competition day dawned, I could feel the song in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an air-off. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and more than anything I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d won, the area went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then all present started singing the classic tune the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – alias Nordic Thunder – a former champion and one of my best pals, was hugging me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a support system. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from globally, and each person is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, each contestant shows support. Then for one minute you’re able to be free, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and musician in a musical act with my sibling called the Southgates, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I create independent videos and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. The city will be a cultural hub soon, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”