I Became the Imaginary Guitar International Titleholder
When I was just 10, I read about a story in my hometown newspaper about the Global Air Guitar Contest, held annually every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the inaugural contest back in 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, dad managed the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been staged in many nations, with the winners converging in Oulu annually.
Initially, I asked my parents if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They believed it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was set on it.
In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. My family were enthusiasts – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the first band I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my hero.
Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to the band's the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started chanting “Angus”, reminiscent of the concert version, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I advanced to the last round, playing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.
After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and started the show another time, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I came second, so I was set to take the title this year.
Our global network is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.
The contest is high-energy yet fun. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. The panel rate you on a point range from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a tune begins and you create on the spot.
Training is crucial. I chose an a metal group song for my act. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to jump, my fingers fast enough to mimic solos and my upper body prepared for those bends and jumps. By the time the big day came, I could sense the music in my soul.
After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had matched with the titleholder from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was time for an final showdown. We competed directly to that classic rock anthem by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and more than anything I was so eager to play again. When they announced I’d emerged victorious, the square erupted.
My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from shock. Then everyone started chanting Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their arms. A former champion – also known as his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in a quarter-century. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “finally happening”.
This worldwide group is like a support system. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from many countries, and each person is positive and uplifting. Before you go on stage, every competitor shows support. Then for one minute you’re allowed to be free, playful, the biggest rock star in the world.
Besides that, I'm a percussionist and musician in a group with my sibling called the band name, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I create mini movies and music videos. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I wish it leads to more innovative opportunities. The city will be a European capital of culture the coming year, so there are great prospects.
At present, I’m just thankful: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”
