Calvin Harris - My London

Calvin, 25, was born in Dumfries. He's had five top ten hits, including Acceptable in the 80s, and a number one album. He has also worked with Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Kylie Minogue...

Home is... Islington. I moved there to live with my girlfriend, who works for the British Fashion Council. The first week we had a break-in, which was a bad sign, but it's calmed down now. I lived in Golders Green for a year when I was 19 but the rent was treble what I was earning working in the Marks & Spencer food hall.

What was the last gig you saw in London?
I saw DJ Jazzy Jeff at the Jazz Café ages ago. He was awesome. I play gigs myself so when I'm not working, I'd rather have a lie-down, a nice cup of tea and a biscuit.

What advice would you give a tourist?
Tourists should do touristy stuff. Definitely go to Westminster and see the Houses of Parliament -it is quite a spectacle.

What's the best meal you've had in London?
The first time I went to Galvin in Baker Street was phenomenal; everything was awesome. The second time I went it wasn't as good, and the third time we were sat in the middle of a bunch of couples and I don't like that vibe. I'd rather be tucked away in a corner.

What's your earliest London memory?
When I was 14 I came down from Scotland with my mum and dad on a day trip. I remember standing in front of Buckingham Palace wearing my Liverpool top. I have the photo to prove it.

What would be on your tombstone?
Tried his best, often failed.

What are you most afraid of?
I'm quite frightened of groups of people walking towards me. For example, Oxford Street in the two weeks running up to Christmas is terrifying.

What would you do as Mayor for the day?
Introduce a fast lane on each side of the pavement for people who actually know where they're going.

What's your life philosophy?
Try not to be a dickhead; be nice and be truthful. It's working really well for me so far.

What animal would you most like to be?
A big brown bear. They are gentle but fierce, and very intimidating when they roar. I love it when they stand on their hind feet; they're scary but so cuddly at the same time.

What was the last album you downloaded?
I still buy CDs. The last one I bought was Dizzee Rascal's Tongue N' Cheek, I have two tracks on it so obviously they are my favourites.

What would you save from a fire?
Assuming my girlfriend followed me outside, I'd pop back in to save my cat, George.

What makes you cry?
Loads of things. I bawl constantly on aeroplanes. Apparently it has something to do with the levels of oxygen in there that increase your sensibility to emotions. I saw Hancock on a flight recently and there was this touching scene between Hancock and a bird, and I choked up.

What are you up to at the moment?
I'm on a UK tour and will be playing The O2 on New Year's Eve.

Who's your hero?
Brian Blessed. He's an incredible character.

Have you ever stolen anything?
I used to steal Percy Pigs from the M&S food hall, sometimes even the cows and sheep if I was feeling particularly ballsy. I'd devour them on my lunch break.

Where was the last place you went on holiday?
I went to Ibiza in the week of my album release and I didn't do a thing. I just lay about, got a bit of a tan, wandered around some of the old churches and steered clear of the clubs.

Ready for The Weekend by Calvin Harris is out now

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