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Back when I was 10, I read about a article in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My parents had volunteered at the inaugural contest since 1996 – mom handed out flyers, my dad organized the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been held all across the world, with the champions assembling in Oulu annually.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always “playing” air guitar, pretending to play to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My parents were music fans – my dad loved Springsteen and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. the guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, playing to hundreds of people in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I earned the moniker “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a adjudicator one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tried a few different stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve qualified for the last round every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was determined to take the title this year.

Our global network 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 intense but joyful. Participants have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. The panel rate you on a grading system from four to six. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to bound, my digits nimble enough to copy riffs and my spine ready for those moves and leaps. When the event arrived, I could feel the song in my being.

After everyone had performed, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so thrilled to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the square exploded.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the song the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – also known as his stage name – a former champion and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I shed tears. I was Finland’s first air guitar world champion in 25 years. The prior titleholder, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was in attendance as well. He gave me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a genuine belief. People come from all over the world, and all involved is helpful and motivating. Prior to performing, all participants comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be yourself, silly, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a percussionist and string player in a musical act with my brother called the group title, named after the football manager, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more creative work. Oulu will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are great prospects.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”