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At the age of 10, I read about a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the very first contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, dad sorted the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the winners assembling in Oulu annually.

At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, just like the album track, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, performing to hundreds of people in the town square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I went back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was set to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have a short window to put their all – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an invisible guitar. The panel score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to jump, my hands fast enough to mimic solos and my upper body ready for those bends and jumps. When the event arrived, I could sense the music in my bones.

After everyone had performed, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then all present started performing the classic tune Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their backs. One of the greats – AKA his stage name – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “about damn time”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from many countries, and all involved is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, each contestant shows support. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and string player in a band with my sibling called the Southgates, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re influenced by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a couple of years, and I create short films and music videos. The victory hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I wish it leads to more artistic projects. The city will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”