🔗 Share this article

When I was just 10, I discovered a feature in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mum distributed flyers, my father sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized in many nations, with the winners assembling in Oulu each August.

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

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, playing to crowds in the town square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn’t compete. I came back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The air guitar community is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to put their all – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. The panel score 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 tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs loose enough to bound, my digits fast enough to copy riffs and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the event arrived, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so thrilled to perform one more time. As they declared I’d won, the venue went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then everyone started singing the classic tune that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – AKA his stage name – a past winner and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, every competitor offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be uninhibited, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a drummer and guitarist in a musical act with my sibling called the Southgates, named after the sports figure, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a short time, and I produce independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”