I Became the Air Guitar World Champion
At the age of 10, I read about a article in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been held globally, with the champions 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 thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.
As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.
Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started yelling “Angus”, just like the album track, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.
After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to win this year.
The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a true ethos.
The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Participants have one minute to put their all – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you freestyle.
Getting ready is key. I picked an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I had it on repeat for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs flexible enough to jump, my fingers quick enough to copy riffs and my back set for those bends and jumps. Once the big day arrived, I could sense the music in my bones.
After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an final showdown. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. As the music started, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so thrilled to play again. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the square erupted.
My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then all present started singing the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their arms. Justin Howard – alias his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.
Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from globally, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be yourself, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.
I’m also a percussionist and string player in a band with my sibling called the band name, named after the football manager, as we’re influenced by British music genres. I’ve been serving drinks for a couple of years, and I direct independent videos and music videos. The victory hasn’t altered my routine significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it results in more innovative opportunities. The city will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are great prospects.
At present, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”
