The vibrant music and arts scene in the Triangle area owes much of its vibrancy to individuals like George Hage. Born in Charlotte and now based in Raleigh, Hage has made a name for himself as both a musician and a designer. His work can be found at various venues across the city, from concert posters to large-scale installations. Through his band Jack The Radio and numerous design projects, Hage has become an integral part of the region’s cultural fabric.
Hage's journey into the world of visual arts began during his high school and college years when he started taking his drawing more seriously. This period also marked the inception of his musical career. With limited resources, Hage took it upon himself to create promotional materials for Jack The Radio, leading to opportunities with other local acts. One of his most notable achievements came with the creation of custom letters for Dreamville Festival, which later evolved into the iconic "RALEIGH" sign at Transfer Co. Food Hall. Additionally, his contributions to comic conventions have allowed him to collaborate with industry professionals, even earning him a cameo in Marvel's Gambit #2.
Hage reflects positively on the early 2000s, a time when Raleigh's music scene was rapidly evolving. The emergence of festivals like Hopscotch and the opening of venues such as Red Hat Amphitheater provided unprecedented opportunities for local artists. Jack The Radio benefited greatly from this environment, expanding from a duo to a full band and releasing several albums. Their music has been featured in popular TV shows and commercials, further enhancing their visibility. Looking ahead, Hage is excited about new art projects and upcoming releases from Jack The Radio, including a potential EP of Tom Petty covers.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Hage appreciates the collaborative spirit within the Triangle's artistic community. He highlights the diversity of genres represented here, from bluegrass to jazz, and praises the willingness of artists to experiment and collaborate across boundaries. This openness fosters innovation and keeps the scene dynamic. Hage remains optimistic about the future, seeing endless possibilities for growth and creativity in this thriving hub of talent.