Henry Walter, also known as Cirkut, received a message from his lawyer in 2008, informing him that beats he created were used in a writing session for a prominent musician. The beats were later featured in Britney Spears’s track “Mmm Papi” from her “Circus” album in 2008. This moment served as validation for Walter, boosting his confidence in his musical abilities.
Today, Walter is a highly sought-after music producer and songwriter, having contributed to major hits over the past fifteen years, including Katy Perry’s “Roar,” Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball,” and The Weeknd’s “Starboy.” With seven Grammy nominations at the upcoming 2026 awards ceremony, he closely follows rapper Kendrick Lamar, who leads with nine nominations.
Reflecting on his early years in Halifax, Walter credits the city and its music scene for shaping his musical journey. Despite online sources often stating Halifax as his birthplace, Walter clarifies that he was born in Ottawa and primarily lived in Montreal before moving to Halifax. In Halifax, he learned about scratching from influential artists like Skratch Bastid, who had a significant impact on his development.
Walter’s musical exploration in Halifax led him to Revolution Records, where he observed Skratch Bastid’s skills behind the turntables. He also acknowledges DJ IV, a key figure in Halifax’s hip hop scene, for influencing his musical style. Walter’s experimentation with beats, without any formal training, caught the attention of local hip hop community members, who recognized his talent.
In 2004, Walter relocated to Toronto to pursue audio engineering studies. His dedication to music led him to form the electro rap group Let’s Go To War, where he served as the DJ. While reflecting on his past experiences, Walter acknowledges the challenges he faced in navigating the music industry but remained determined to succeed.
Following his breakthrough with Britney Spears, Walter’s career soared, leading him to Los Angeles in 2012, where he collaborated with renowned artists. His recent work on Lady Gaga’s album showcases his creative input, particularly on the track “Abracadabra.” Walter’s collaborative approach in the studio emphasizes creating a safe and open space for all ideas to flourish.
Walter’s success has earned him admiration from peers like Skratch Bastid and DJ IV, who commend his hard work and genuine nature. Walter’s journey from Halifax to working with global music icons like Lady Gaga reflects his perseverance and passion for music. As he continues to push boundaries in the music industry, Walter remains grateful for the opportunities that have come his way.