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When I was just 10, I discovered a article in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, dad managed the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu annually.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could enter. Initially they had doubts; 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 set on it.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were enthusiasts – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the original act I found independently. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, playing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a referee one year, and started the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have a short window to put their all – explosive energy, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. The panel score you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my routine. I played it repeatedly for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my hands nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those bends and jumps. Once the event dawned, I could feel the song in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an air-off. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so thrilled to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started singing Neil Young’s that well-known track and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – alias Nordic Thunder – a former champion and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re free to be uninhibited, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a drummer and string player in a musical act with my sibling called the Southgates, inspired by the football manager, as we’re fans of Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I create independent videos and performance clips. The title hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I hope it leads to more creative work. Oulu will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are promising opportunities.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”