I'm the Imaginary Guitar International Titleholder

Back when I was 10, I discovered a feature in my local paper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the very first contest since 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, my dad managed the music. Since then, national championships have been organized globally, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu each August.

Initially, I requested permission if I could enter. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, pretending to play to the most popular rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were music fans – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I discovered on my own. the lead guitarist, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it dawned on me: so this is to be a guitar hero. I advanced to the last round, performing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “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 returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The contest is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – high-powered performance, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a grading system from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.

Preparation is everything. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I had it on repeat for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my legs loose enough to bound, my fingers fast enough to copy riffs and my back prepared for those bends and jumps. Once the big day arrived, I could internalize the track in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was occasion for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so eager to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started performing the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – alias his stage name – a past winner and one of my best pals, was holding me. I shed tears. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He gave me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from many countries, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be free, playful, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a beat keeper and musician in a group with my brother called the Southgates, inspired by the football manager, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I direct independent videos and performance clips. The victory hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it results in more artistic projects. The city will be a cultural hub soon, so there are exciting things ahead.

Currently, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”