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At the age of 10, I discovered a article in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had volunteered at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mum gave out flyers, dad sorted the music. Since then, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the champions assembling in Oulu every summer.

Initially, I requested permission if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were music fans – my dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, competing to crowds in the town square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a adjudicator one year, and started the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned 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 stage name. I’ve reached the finals every year since 2022, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was set to win 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 true ethos.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Competitors have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. Judges rate you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. 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 weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs loose enough to jump, my fingers quick enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those gestures and hops. Once competition day came, I could sense the music in my bones.

Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was a tune I recognized, and above all I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

My memory is blurry. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their backs. A former champion – also known as Nordic Thunder – a former champion and one of my best pals, was hugging me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar global winner in 25 years. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was in attendance as well. He offered me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. People come from globally, and each person is positive and uplifting. As you prepare to compete, every competitor comes and hugs you. Then for a brief period you’re allowed to be free, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and musician in a musical act with my brother called the Southgates, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I create mini movies and music videos. Winning hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it results in more creative work. The city will be a designated cultural center soon, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the community, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”