I Became the Imaginary Guitar World Champion
Back when I was 10, I read about a story in my local paper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My parents had helped out at the very first contest back in 1996 – my mother distributed flyers, dad organized the music. From that point, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the winners gathering in Oulu each August.
Initially, I inquired with my family if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was determined.
In my youth, I was always miming air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I found independently. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my inspiration.
Upon entering the spotlight, I did my routine to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, competing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was addicted. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.
Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and opened for the show once more, but I didn't participate. I came back at 18, tried a few different stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and make “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.
The worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. It sounds silly, but it’s a real philosophy.
The contest is intense but joyful. Contestants have one minute to deliver maximum effort – explosive energy, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an imaginary instrument. Judges evaluate you on a point range from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a song plays and you improvise.
Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my act. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I practiced flexibility, trying to get my limbs loose enough to leap, my digits nimble enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those bends and jumps. By the time competition day arrived, I could feel the song in my soul.
When the show concluded, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the winner from Japan, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses. When I heard the song, I felt relieved because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so thrilled to play again. As they declared I’d won, the area erupted.
It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I blacked out from the excitement. Then the crowd started chanting the classic tune the anthem Rockin' in the Free World and lifted me on to their arms. One of the greats – alias his stage name – a past winner and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was also present. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “long overdue”.
The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Make air, not war”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. Competitors come from globally, and everyone is helpful and motivating. As you prepare to compete, all participants shows support. Then for 60 seconds you’re free to be free, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.
Besides that, I'm a percussionist and musician in a musical act with my family member called the group title, inspired by the sports figure, as we’re fans of UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I create mini movies and performance clips. Winning hasn’t changed my day-to-day life too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I aspire it results in more innovative opportunities. The city will be a cultural hub next year, so there are great prospects.
At present, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “That's for me.”
