I.R.S. Nashville

SAVE IT FOR LATER: CMG and Caroline have dusted off and polished up the old I.R.S. nameplate (periods and all) and transported it to Music City for the launch of indie label I.R.S. Nashville, to be headed by respected veteran John Grady. As the President of the label, Grady will oversee a roster composed of artists working in the various genres that thrive in Nashville, country and otherwise. Initial I.R.S. Nashville artist signings include young duo Striking Matches and, posthumously, the legendary Cowboy Jack Clement, who recorded throughout the early part of this year and whose final album—featuring guest appearances from Vince Gill, John Prine, Emmylou Harris and other local notables—is being produced by Dave Ferguson, with T Bone Burnett serving as executive producer. The new label will handle its own A&R and marketing, while Caroline will provide commercial support, radio promotion and licensing resources. Grady will continue as a partner at Crush Management, repping Ashley Monroe (WBR), Kristen Kelly (Sony) and Striking Matches. (10/23a)