Born in Brooklyn, New York, Charlemagne Palestine emerged from the experimental music scene of the 1960s and 1970s. He became a central figure in the New York minimalist movement, though he distinguished his own practice by embracing a maximalist aesthetic characterized by dense, resonant soundscapes and intense, durational performances.

His artistic output is defined by a multidisciplinary approach that bridges sound, video, and visual installation. He is particularly well-known for his performances on the carillon and the piano, as well as his elaborate, ritualistic installations often featuring collections of stuffed animals and other found objects, which he refers to as his god-bear companions.

Palestine continues to be recognized for his influential role in the development of drone music and experimental performance art. His work remains a subject of study for its unique intersection of sonic exploration and physical, object-based installation.