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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been staged globally, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu annually.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it struck me: this must be to be a rock star. I reached the championship, playing to hundreds of people in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I returned 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 artist name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Contestants have a short window to put their all – high-powered performance, precise mimicry, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. Judges rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. When it's a draw, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I had it on repeat for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs prepared enough to jump, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body prepared for those gestures and hops. Once the event dawned, I could sense the music in my being.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had tied with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so excited to perform one more time. When they announced I’d triumphed, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I blacked out from surprise. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding saying is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my brother called the band name, referencing the football manager, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I produce independent videos and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more creative work. My hometown will be a cultural hub next year, so there are promising opportunities.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the opportunity to play, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”