Mp3 labs launches as a strategic storytelling and growth partner
January 27, 2026 MP3 LABS officially launches today, expanding the foundation of MP3 PR into a broader, narrative-driven platform built for modern music culture.
Founded by publicist and strategist Franz Hilberath, MP3 LABS evolves traditional public relations into a full-spectrum brand management agency structured around three core pillars: PR, Marketing, and Partnerships, the “3” of MP3. The agency is designed to help artists and creative brands build sustained cultural relevance rather than short-term visibility.
Operating at the intersection of editorial PR, social strategy, DSP positioning, live experiences, and sponsorships, MP3 LABS works alongside artists, management teams, labels, promoters, festivals, and brands to guide career-defining chapters, not isolated release cycles. The agency’s approach begins with narrative: defining why a story matters, where it belongs culturally, and how it should unfold over time.
“Artists and brands don’t just need coverage anymore,” says Hilberath. “They need clarity, credibility, and momentum. MP3 LABS exists to translate creativity into influence, and visibility into longevity.”
A Roster Built for Long-Term Impact
MP3 LABS’ current collaborators span global touring acts and festival headliners including GRiZ, Of The Trees, DJ DIESEL (Shaquille O’Neal), Detox Unit, Kayzo, and Eli Brown, alongside breakout and fast-rising projects such as Levity, Tape B, and Alleycvt, and emerging artists including Cool Customer, Eazybaked, Heyz, Meduso, and Mlotik.
The agency also works closely with key institutions across the live and recorded music ecosystem, including AEG Presents Rocky Mountains, festivals such as Hulaween, North Coast Music Festival, Cascade Equinox, and Sacred Acre Alaska, labels including Monstercat, Deadbeats, and Memory Palace, influential festival platforms like The Festive Owl, and industry companies such as Kompass Music Group, ICONAC, and MLennial.
Integrated Strategy Under One Roof
Brand management at MP3 LABS unifies its three pillars into a single strategic framework:
PR: Editorial press, long-form storytelling, new media strategy, DSP and platform consulting (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube), and overarching brand positioning.
Marketing: Social media direction, creator and influencer amplification, and platform-native content strategies
Partnerships: Sponsorship strategy and dealmaking, aligning artists and brands with culturally relevant partners.
Rather than leading with announcements, MP3 LABS builds campaigns designed to travel fluidly across press, creators, DSPs, festivals, and real-world activations.
Team Expansion
As part of its launch, MP3 LABS announces the promotion of Ashley “Riley” Lopez to Vice President of Public Relations. Formerly at INFAMOUS PR, Lopez brings extensive experience in festival operations and large-scale campaign execution. She now oversees PR strategy for artists including DJ Snake, Kayzo, and Eli Brown, as well as festivals such as Cascade Equinox, and has played a key role in establishing first-time PR infrastructure for major events including Lost Lands, Bass Canyon, and Sacred Acre.
The agency also welcomes Lee Harmon as Head of Partnerships and Sponsorships. Formerly with Excel Sports Management, Harmon brings a background in athlete sponsorship and brand development, with previous campaigns including Jamal Murray x Miller Lite (“Murray Time”) and Justin Herbert x Dr. Squatch. At MP3 LABS, he focuses on innovating partnership strategy within music and festival culture.
A Proven Editorial and Cultural Reach
MP3 LABS launches with an active retainer roster spanning artists, labels, festivals, promoters, and creative brands, including generational names such as Kaskade, Zeds Dead, DJ Snake, and Claude VonStroke alongside the next wave of headlining talent.
Recent high-profile placements include Los Angeles Times, Billboard, Rolling Stone, SPIN, PAPER, DJ Mag, Pollstar, and more. The agency’s work has also appeared on national television outlets including FOX31 Denver, KTLA, CBS Las Vegas Now, and FOX32 Chicago. In recognition of its impact and innovation, MP3 PR was named PR Company of the Year 2026 by EDM.com.
