I was born in Fergus Falls, MN on February 12, 1985 and grew up in Prior Lake, MN. After receiving a drum set for my second birthday, music quickly became my main passion in life.
I went on to attend McNally Smith College of Music, where I earned my Masters Degree in Percussion Performance, and have focused on creating my own playing style combining elements of progressive metal, funk, Latin, and West African rhythms.
My goal is to utilize the many different approaches and rhythmic tools to bring my percussive voice to its optimum level. I continue to push my own physical limitations daily, and hope that my playing style represents these concepts in a unique and musical way.
I have been teaching drums for over 15 years, and currently offer private virtual lessons from my home studio. I am also available for session and touring work, and can be reached at charlieengen@gmail.com for more information.You can also follow me in the bands Five Finger Death Punch, Scale The Summit, and Idealogy.