I Became the Air Guitar World Champion

Back when I was 10, I read about a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the pioneering contest back in 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, my dad organized the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been held in many nations, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my father loved The Boss and U2. the band AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, just like the album track, and it struck me: so this is to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, competing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I returned 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 artist name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to win this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a true ethos.

The contest is high-energy yet fun. Participants have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Judges rate you on a point range from a specific numeric range. In the case of a tie, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I picked an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to bound, my hands fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my back ready for those bends and jumps. By the time the event arrived, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was moment for an air-off. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt relieved because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the venue exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I blacked out from shock. Then all present started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. One of the greats – alias his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I wept. I was Finland’s first air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was there, too. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from many countries, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants offers an embrace. Then for one minute you’re able to be yourself, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a beat keeper and string player in a group with my sibling called the Southgates, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re influenced by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I produce independent videos and song visuals. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it brings more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the opportunity to play, and for that budding enthusiast who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”