Being a source of inspiration for fellow artists is at the heart of Kid Cudi’s latest venture in the tech space. In 2020, the rapper co-founded Encore, an interactive live performance app that helps artists further connect with their fans. Now, in 2022, the platform has officially launched and made its debut on app stores, according to a press release. “My number one priority has always been inspiring others and providing them the space to tell their own stories in an authentic and meaningful way. We created Encore as a space for artists to share their art, build community, while also being able to pay their rent,” Cudi shared in a statement. The announcement of Encore’s launch comes in after the raise of $9 million in seed funding led by Battery Ventures, the press release details. Other investors included 468 Capital, Parade Ventures, Nomad Ventures, Moving Capital, Kayak Ventures, and Gaingels.