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When I was just 10, I discovered a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my father managed the music. Since then, country-level contests have been held all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu annually.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could compete. Initially they had doubts; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were lovers of music – my father loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the first band I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my idol.

Upon entering the spotlight, I performed my act to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the live recording, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, playing 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 judge one year, and opened for the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I came back at 18, experimented with various stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to win this year.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have 60 seconds to put their all – high-powered performance, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel score you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected 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 lower body loose enough to jump, my hands nimble enough to copy riffs and my spine set for those gestures and hops. When the event dawned, I could feel the song in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an air-off. We faced off to that classic rock anthem by the rock group. 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. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the venue erupted.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. A former champion – also known as his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “about damn time”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and all involved is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, every competitor offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be yourself, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a drummer and musician in a group with my family member called the Southgates, named after the football manager, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce short films and song visuals. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I hope it results in more creative work. Oulu will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are promising opportunities.

At present, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that young child who picked up a newspaper and thought, “I want to do that.”