Lobeline Communications Review: A Mixed Bag of PR Success and Missteps

Founded in 1986 by former concert promoter Phil Lobel, Lobeline Communications started as a PR firm catering to the entertainment and music industry. Over the years, it expanded into broader sectors, including corporate branding, marketing communications, and reputation management. While some clients praise their aggressive PR tactics and media placements, others criticize their outdated approach and lack of industry specialization.

This review dives deep into Lobeline Communications' strengths and weaknesses, based on real client experiences.

Pros: Where Lobeline Communications Excels

1. Strong Media Connections & PR Aggressiveness

Several clients highlight Lobeline’s ability to secure high-profile media placements, including national TV interviews and magazine features. One satisfied client noted:

"They’ve gotten me national and international media spots, television interviews, and magazine features. They’ve really done a great job with my brand."

Phil Lobel’s assertive nature plays a key role here—he pushes clients to engage in interviews and leverages his industry connections effectively.

2. Diligent Project Management

Clients working with Lobeline appreciate their organized workflow and proactive communication. One restaurant owner shared:

"They’re completely on top of it and very diligent. They always make sure I know what’s happening, where to go, and where to be for an interview."

This hands-on approach ensures clients stay engaged in their PR campaigns.

3. Passionate Advocacy for Clients

Unlike generic PR firms, Lobeline’s team believes in their clients’ brands and fights hard for exposure. A happy client mentioned:

"Phil believes in what I do, what I offer, and what I’ve created. He’s not shy about getting me booked into as many things as possible."

This level of dedication is rare in the PR industry.

Cons: Where Lobeline Communications Falls Short

1. Misleading Industry Expertise

One major criticism is that Lobeline overpromises and underdelivers when it comes to niche markets. A disappointed client in the music industry revealed:

"They had NO experience with our musical genre. The well-known musicians listed on their website were ancient history."

This lack of specialization led to poorly executed social media campaigns with fake followers and no engagement.

2. Outdated PR Strategies

Some clients feel Lobeline relies too much on old-school PR tactics without adapting to modern digital marketing. One frustrated client stated:

"Their social media strategizing was a sham. The Instagram and Facebook followers were possibly purchased, providing zero engagement."

For businesses needing cutting-edge digital PR, Lobeline may not be the best fit.

3. High Fees for Questionable Value

A particularly scathing review came from a client who lost $10,000 with little return:

"Save yourself the hassle, aggravation, and outrageous fees. Lobeline PR is past its prime."

This raises concerns about ROI, especially for small businesses.

Final Verdict: Is Lobeline Communications Worth It?

Who Should Hire Lobeline?

✔ Traditional businesses needing TV, print, and radio exposure
✔ Clients who want aggressive PR representation
✔ Established brands looking for media connections

Who Should Avoid Lobeline?

✖ Niche industries (e.g., rock/metal music, digital-first brands)
✖ Startups with limited budgets
✖ Businesses needing modern social media marketing

The Bottom Line

Lobeline Communications excels in traditional PR and media placements but struggles with digital marketing and niche industries. If you need old-school PR hustle, Phil Lobel’s team might deliver. However, if you’re looking for innovative, genre-specific PR, you may want to explore other options.

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5) – Decent for traditional PR, but outdated in digital spaces.