February 17, 2022 – Encore, an interactive live performance platform built to connect artists directly with fans through mobile, interactive, live augmented reality (AR) experiences, has announced the official launch of the Encore Studio App. The launch follows a USD $9 million raise led by Battery Ventures, and other investments from 468 Capital, Parade Ventures, Nomad Ventures, Moving Capital, Kayak Ventures, and Gaingels.
Encore states that its platform gives music artists the tools and technology to tell their story, release new music, and host conversations and interactive experiences with their fans. Using Encore, artists create and perform live in custom AR environments from their mobile device. Fans participate via gamified microtransactions in the form of a “ten-cent clap,” which can be used to watch live shows, chat with an artist, and interact.
Jonathan Gray, CEO of Encore, said: “Our live AR technology empowers any artist to create personalized content and host experiences for their fans without a production budget or crew and make real cash with 100’s of engaged fans.”
While in private beta, hundreds of artists including SSGKobe, The Cool Kids, Too $hort, and DC the Don have created and performed shows to tens of thousands of fans through the Encore platform, who have collectively clapped almost a million times, according to Encore.
“My fans mean everything to me. Getting the chance to connect with them directly and seeing their response to my new music on Encore has been incredible,” said artist DC the Don, who has performed multiple times on Encore’s beta platform. “Encore has been an amazing new platform for me to drop singles and help roll out my album, talk directly with my fans, and make some extra money.”
Headquartered in Los Angeles, Encore is led by a team of artists, creatives and technology entrepreneurs, all on a mission to democratize the music industry. Encore was co-founded by Award-Winning Artist Kid Cudi (Chief Creative Officer), Hollywood Producer, Screenwriter and Director Ian Edelman (President), and Technology Entrepreneur Jonathan Gray (CEO).
“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,” said Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi.
For artists looking to use the Encore Studio App and perform live in AR, visit the Apple App Store and download the ‘Encore Studio: Live Music AR’ app. For fans wanting to watch live AR performances, visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download the ‘Encore: Interactive Live Music’ app.
For more information on Encore and its augmented reality-based live performance platform, please visit the company’s website.
Image / video credit: Encore
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Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.