My London: Damon Dash
Music mogul, fashion designer and the man charged with reviving Victoria Beckham's pop career,
Where do you live, and why?
I spend most of my time in the States for work, but I've just found a crib in Chelsea. Actually, I didn't want to spend as much, but when they showed me the house, I was sold. Those estate agents, they really know what they're doing.
Who's in your secret address book?
Soho House, but every time I go I have to get Victoria [Beckham] to get me in. I don't care, though, they're just doing their job. I find all those girls with clipboards a bit amusing - I guess it's their little moment of power. Actually, if I opened up a club I'd have them come work for me.
Harvey Nicks or Selfridges?
Selfridges, of course. It sells my clothing line Rocawear. I think it's cool the way you can buy bicycles and clothes on the same floor.
What do you miss most when you're out of London?
I miss the British accents. I think they're incredibly sexy.
What are your favourite home comforts?
I have a chef - it's very important to me to have good food - and a theatre to watch movies. Also, music. I have speakers everywhere and always have something playing.
What are your extravagances?
I charter private jets, but I'm aiming to buy one. It's the kind of kick I need to have. The more money you make, the more opportunities you are exposed to.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
I'd make it a national party day. Everyone would listen to hip hop (it's got to be hip hop) in the street and just dance all day.
What is your life philosophy?
I live by my honour, I never lie. Even if it means not being politically correct, I will still tell the truth. And I try to laugh a lot.
How do you get around town?
I hate it when people have to separate before going to a party or club. So I usually travel with friends in a van.
Do you have a favourite pub?
I'm not a pub kind of guy, I've got to go somewhere where I can dance. I went to The Hospital. That was pretty cool.
What were the last books you bought?
Right now I'm reading The Da Vinci Code. I get through a lot of scripts but business plans take up most of my spare time. I also read self-improvement books such as The Celestine Prophecy.
What is your earliest London memory?
Performing with Jay-Z and the Fugees at Wembley. We didn't have a hit record at the time, but the crowd was pretty responsive. Last time I was there I was teasing Jade Jagger and telling her that we had replaced her dad's band as the hottest rock stars.
What aftershave do you wear?
Chanel Platinum Egoïste. I wear it every day.
What is in your winter wardrobe?
White T-shirts and oldschool Nike Airs. I've been wearing the same style since I was 12. I like to wear new things every day - people call me 'Fresh to death'.
What was the last gig you went to in London and did you enjoy it?
I saw Kings of Leon at Brixton Academy. They were cool. It turned into a pretty late night afterwards, too.
Where was the last place you went on holiday?
I usually combine holidays with work, but my last proper break was in Brazil. I was up to my ears in champagne, women and dancing - they party hard there!
What was the last CD you bought?
I buy lots of oldschool stuff. I think the last CD I bought was Alicia Keys. I wanted to support her, I like her style. I go out and buy ten copies of all my friends' albums.
What have been your most memorable London meals
I've had some fine food at No 5 Cavendish Square, San Lorenzo and Nobu. I like the way everything is built. Outside things are untouched but inside they're really funky.
What advice would you give to a tourist?
Go sneaker shopping. If I had time I'd see the sights. I've only seen Beckingham Palace, but I guess I know Victoria and David better than the Royal Family.
