I Became the Imaginary Guitar Global Winner

Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been held globally, with the champions assembling in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I inquired with my family if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started yelling “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to win this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have a short window to put their all – explosive energy, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel evaluate you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Preparation is everything. I picked an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to bound, my digits nimble enough to copy riffs and my upper body ready for those gestures and hops. By the time the event came, I could sense the music in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an air-off. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and more than anything I was so eager to have another go. As they declared I’d triumphed, the venue exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and raised me up on to their arms. A former champion – alias his performer title – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was there, too. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. The phrase we live by is “Create music, not conflict”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants offers an embrace. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be free, silly, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a beat keeper and guitarist in a group with my brother called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I produce independent videos and music videos. The victory hasn’t changed my day-to-day life significantly but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it results in more creative work. The city will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”