I Became the Imaginary Guitar International Titleholder
When I was just 10, I came across a article in my local paper about the Air Guitar World Championships, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had volunteered at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mother gave out flyers, dad managed the music. Ever since, national championships have been held in many nations, with the champions converging in Oulu every summer.
At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.
As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my father loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the initial group I found independently. Angus Young, the guitar hero, was my idol.
When I stepped on stage, I played my set to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The crowd started shouting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it hit me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.
Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show another time, but I didn’t compete. 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 choose “The Angus” as my performance alias. I’ve reached the finals each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was determined to win this year.
The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Make air, not war’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.
The event is intense but joyful. Competitors have one minute to give everything – high-powered performance, perfect mime, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. The panel evaluate you on a scale from four to six. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the remaining participants: a song plays and you improvise.
Getting ready is key. I selected an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs flexible enough to jump, my hands quick enough to mimic solos and my spine ready for those gestures and hops. Once competition day came, I could sense the music in my soul.
When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had tied with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so excited to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the square exploded.
It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then the crowd started performing the classic tune that well-known track and raised me up on to their shoulders. Justin Howard – AKA his performer title – a previous titleholder and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I cried. I was the first Finnish air guitar world champion in two and a half decades. The previous Finnish champion, the earlier victor, was in attendance as well. He offered me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.
Our global network is like a support system. Our motto is “Create music, not conflict”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from all over the world, and each person is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, all participants shows support. Then for one minute you’re able to be uninhibited, humorous, the ultimate music icon in the world.
Additionally, I am a percussionist and musician in a musical act with my sibling called the group title, referencing the football manager, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a few years now, and I direct independent videos and song visuals. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities significantly but I’ve been doing a many interviews, and I aspire it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a European capital of culture next year, so there are promising opportunities.
Currently, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the chance to perform, and for that budding enthusiast who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”
