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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 hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom distributed flyers, my father sorted the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been staged globally, with the winners converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I requested permission if I could enter. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started shouting “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it struck me: this must be to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, playing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It may seem funny, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have 60 seconds to give everything – high-powered performance, 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 last two competitors: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to jump, my digits nimble enough to mimic solos and my spine ready for those moves and leaps. Once the big day arrived, I could feel the song in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an tiebreaker. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so eager to play again. When they announced I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was there, too. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. The phrase we live by is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from globally, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be free, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a drummer and musician in a group with my family member called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I create mini movies and music videos. The title hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more creative work. The city will be a cultural hub the coming year, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”