Somerset duo Rileys Cove are feeling on top of the world after being named International Band of the Year.

The accolade from the International Singer-Songwriters Association saw them beat competition from independent artists across the world.

The award marks another major milestone for Rileys Cove, vocalist Michelle Mitchell and guitarist Ian Scott, better known as Chelle & Scottie, who first gained international recognition after winning an ISSA award for their debut single 'Without' during the pandemic.

Their latest success follows the release of their newest EP, Listen Carefully, which launched in March 2026 and features five original tracks showcasing the band's distinctive blend of acoustic, folk and country-inspired songwriting.

The ISSA is one of the world's largest independent music communities, supporting and promoting artists across multiple countries. The award was announced at the annual red-carpet awards ceremony, which celebrates excellence in independent music and is held at the prestigious Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, Georgia, a venue also used for the BMI Awards.

Scottie said: "We've come a long way since we started writing together over socially distanced garden jams and video calls back in 2020. Six years on we've written and recorded 13 original tracks on three EP's, and been lucky enough to play some amazing gigs, including Glastonbury Festival in 2023. To be recognised internationally is something we're enormously proud of."

Chelle said: As a small independent band from a tiny corner of rural Somerset, we could never imagine standing alongside incredible artists from across the world and receiving this kind of recognition.”

The award comes after a strong year for the duo, whose music continues to attract listeners in the UK, Europe, North America and Australia. Their latest EP, Listen Carefully, has received praise for its heartfelt songwriting and authentic Somerset sound.