🔗 Share this article

When I was just 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my dad sorted the music. From that point, national championships have been staged globally, with the winners converging in Oulu annually.

Back then, I requested permission if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Competitors have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an invisible guitar. The panel evaluate you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I had it on repeat for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body loose enough to bound, my digits fast enough to mimic solos and my upper body ready for those bends and jumps. By the time the event arrived, I could sense the music in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an final showdown. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so thrilled to have another go. When they announced I’d won, the venue went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then the crowd started performing the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – alias his performer title – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. People come from all over the world, and all involved is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re able to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and musician in a group with my brother called the group title, inspired by the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I direct short films and song visuals. The victory hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it leads to more creative work. Oulu will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”