Justin “Nordic Thunder” Howard hails from the square state known as Wyoming, but currently calls Chicago his home. In the spring of 2006, Nordic Thunder took to the stage for the first time in a smoke filled bar in Chicago where he competed against 20 other professional air guitarists from around the Midwest, ultimately becoming Chicago’s greatest air guitarist. Two air guitar related surgeries later, along with becoming the Air Guitar World Champion, Nordic Thunder has traveled the world playing his invisible guitar. From the dunes of Qatar to the Artic Circle, Nordic Thunder spreads his message of world peace, love, and understanding through invisible guitar licks and head banging hair whips. He even captured the attention of Dr Pepper where he was proclaimed to be “One in a Billion” and appeared in several commercials of theirs that aired nationwide.
What started off as something to make his friends laugh, Justin has deemed air guitar a vessel in which has delivered him to one of his life’s purposes. That purpose is to communicate with people on an open and personal level and to preach his message of world peace; something he in fact feels is absolutely obtainable. He is able to do this by captivating his audiences whether it is through his air guitar, stage performances, or through the many opportunities he’s had to speak in front of audiences around the world.
Some kind words from some kind folks.
“We brought Nordic Thunder to help us commemorate the opening of our second store. His electric energy, raw emotion, and unfettered confidence provided an experience unlike any other. For the off-the-wall act of air guitar, Nordic Thunder is a rare find of authenticity that creates a part think-piece and part commentary on entertainment in the modern age, in short, Nordic Thunder was a massive hit.”
Founder and CEO, Dimo’s Pizza
“Having Nordic Thunder open for Andrew WK at our 5th Anniversary Party was the icing on our proverbial birthday cake. His raucous energy and sick air-riffs riled up the crowd for what was easily the biggest and most exciting party of the year. We wish we could hire him to introduce us at all our important client meetings, but unfortunately, some board rooms have a dress code.”
Brand Development Manager, Revolution Brewing
“Justin Howard is one of the most exquisite performers I know. Sincere, engaging, fearless; of dramatic physical presence and a true raconteur. I’ve booked Justin to sit on panels in collaboration with the Illinois Humanities Council (Chicago) and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (U.K.). Always a house favorite. Strikes like a bolt. Justin is a rare find and a privilege to work and collaborate with: generous and kind, brimming of positivity. This guy's mission: to build a better world.”
Publisher, The Places We’ve Been Books
“Justin is a phenomenal teacher. He visited my students, many who have developmental differences, and showed them how to rock! They were drawn to his energy - both his wild side and his gentle side! He made each child feel special and was so encouraging. The kids spent the rest of the day creating their own air guitar personas because they were so excited to learn from a rock legend!”
Enrichment Program Manager and Marketing, LEEP Forward
“The 17th Annual Wyoming Film Festival was lucky enough to have Justin Howard (aka Nordic Thunder) grace us with his "air-ness" this year as a judge and presenter. I have run the high school film and television program at Natrona County High School for the past 20 years and this is the first time the festival has sold out. I have no doubt that it had to do with his commanding and hilarious presentation and performance. He was kind enough to step in as Master of Ceremonies and did an incredible job amping up the sold out Casper Wyoming crowd. It has been months since the festival and my students are still talking about Justin. He did the thing that is every teacher's goal. He inspired them. Students have been asking me this, "Mr. Madzey, is Justin going to come back to the festival this year? Please say he is!”
Teacher, Natrona County High School
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