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At the age of 10, I read about a article in my community gazette about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the pioneering contest starting from 1996 – my mother handed out flyers, my father managed the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been organized all across the world, with the champions gathering in Oulu annually.

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

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My parents were enthusiasts – my father loved The Boss and U2. AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

When I stepped on stage, I performed my act to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started chanting “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it hit me: this must be to be a rock star. I advanced to the last round, performing to crowds in the town square, and I was addicted. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a referee one year, and opened for the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and adopt “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, 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. The saying we live by is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The competition itself is intense but joyful. Contestants have a short window to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. Judges score you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Getting ready is key. I selected an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my legs prepared enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to mimic solos and my back ready for those bends and jumps. Once the event came, I could internalize the track in my soul.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had drawn with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an final showdown. We went head-to-head to the Guns N’ Roses hit by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so thrilled to play again. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square went wild.

The moment is hazy. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was hugging me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in a quarter-century. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was also present. He gave me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a genuine belief. Participants come from many countries, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, all participants shows support. Then for one minute you’re able to be uninhibited, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

Besides that, I'm a drummer and string player in a musical act with my sibling called the Southgates, named after Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I produce independent videos and performance clips. The title hasn’t affected my daily activities drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it brings more creative work. The city will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”