Forget the whole God is a DJ business, Londoners know that the finest DJs in the land are really simple folk at heart who just happen to know the capital inside out. Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about Anil Chawla but were too busy dancing to ask.

The DJ: Anil Chawla
The Club Night: South West Four Festival
The Place: Clapham Common
The Dates: 29th August
The Music: House

How did you get into DJing?
It was the end of my first year at university (1999) and I'd really confirmed my love with clubbing and house music the year before, which was fuelled by two weeks in Ibiza. Record decks seemed to be the next logical progression. To start with, I'd never really had any intention of playing out, but was just fascinated with vinyl. It turned into quite an expensive habit.

What makes your style of DJing unique?
I think it's hard to pin down what is particularly unique about any DJ. I just like to play music I love, and hopefully that translates to good dance floor fodder.

What do you do when you’re not DJing?
Mostly making music or hunting for new tracks. I also have a habit of catching onto TV series years after they're made and watching several episodes a day until I've done the whole lot. Curb Your Enthusiasm and Entourage are my latest ventures. I went through a phase of watching about three episodes of Lost a day towards the end of last year.

What music do you listen to?
I spend loads of time each week listening to new music to DJ with, so I don't really get much time to listen to much else. If I do get the chance then I do like the odd bit of disco, soul and chilled out sounds. I'm loving the Empire of the Sun album from last year too, and I've been digging up some old Stone Roses and Ian Brown tracks on iTunes.

Who’s on your DJ dream team?
Blatant plug here, but I've just started a new thing called DAT Soundsystem with Tim Davison and Dale Anderson, so I'll go with those two!

What was the most expensive night you’ve ever enjoyed in London, and who was paying?
I have absolutely no idea.

And the cheapest?
Probably when I saw Arrested Development at Fruitstock in Regents Park. A great day out.

What’s your favourite festival?
I'd say Bestival as there's such a variety of stuff to do, and the people that go are really sound.

What’s the most unique venue in London in your opinion?
For me, it was either Turnmills or The End, both of which have unfortunately closed. As for clubs that are open, I've always enjoyed Corsica Studios in Elephant and Castle, which has that nice contrast between warehouse and club.

Describe your perfect day and night in London?
I'm not really one for fancy dinners, so I’m happy with Pizza Express as I'm a bit of a pepperoni and cheese addict, or maybe some nice sushi for something different. For a few drinks, I love Strongrooms on Curtain Road as it's got a great outdoor area, a nice feel to it and good service at the bar.

Anil Chawla plays the South West Four festival on 29th August.