In 2008, Henry Walter received a message from his lawyer regarding the use of beats he created in a writing session with an undisclosed A-list musician. This validation moment came as a boost for Walter, also known as Cirkut, who spent his formative years in Halifax before relocating to Toronto in 2004. The beats from that session eventually made it onto Britney Spears’s track “Mmm Papi” from the “Circus” album in 2008.
Today, Walter has established himself as a highly sought-after music producer and songwriter, contributing to several chart-topping hits over the past fifteen years, including Katy Perry’s “Roar,” Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball,” and The Weeknd’s “Starboy.” Despite previous Grammy nominations, Walter is nominated for seven awards at the upcoming ceremony on February 1, 2026, placing him second only to Kendrick Lamar with nine nominations.
Reflecting on his roots in Halifax during the early 2000s, Walter credited the local music scene for shaping his musical journey. While online sources often wrongly list him as a Halifax native, Walter clarified that he was born in Ottawa and primarily lived in Montreal before moving to Halifax. He highlighted the influence of artists like Skratch Bastid, whom he observed at Revolution Records on Prince Street, where he honed his skills.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Walter delved into beat-making without formal training, relying on experimentation and observation to develop his craft. Despite facing uncertainties about his music career and taking on odd jobs to make ends meet, Walter’s determination and self-belief never wavered. The breakthrough with Britney Spears marked just the beginning of his journey to becoming a prolific music producer.
Having moved to Los Angeles in 2012, Walter’s collaboration with Lady Gaga on her album “Mayhem” earned him multiple Grammy nominations this year. His work on the track “Abracadabra” showcased his creative process, with spontaneous moments shaping the final product. Walter’s approach in the studio emphasizes collaboration and creating a safe space for ideas to flourish.
As he continues to make waves in the music industry, Walter remains connected to his Halifax roots, reflecting on his remarkable journey from his early days in the local music scene to his current success. His story serves as a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a deep passion for music that has propelled him to the forefront of the industry.
