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At the age of 10, I came across a article in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, my dad organized the music. Since then, country-level contests have been organized in many nations, with the champions gathering in Oulu annually.

Initially, I requested permission if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it dawned on me: so this is to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in the town square, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to put their all – high-powered performance, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. Judges evaluate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “air-off” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to bound, my fingers quick enough to mimic solos and my back set for those gestures and hops. When the big day came, I could sense the music in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so excited to have another go. As they declared I’d won, the square erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then all present started singing the classic tune that well-known track and lifted me on to their shoulders. A former champion – alias his stage name – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from many countries, and all involved is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, all participants offers an embrace. Then for a brief period you’re able to be free, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and string player in a group with my brother called the Southgates, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I create short films and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it results in more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a cultural hub next year, 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'd love to try that.”