RENFREWSHIRE singer Paolo Nutini has topped the chart for the most played Scottish Album of the Year Award (Say) artist.

The Paisley-born musician takes the lead, with alternative-rock group Biffy Clyro in second place and indie-rock band Franz Ferdinand ranked third.

The chart, compiled by music licensing company PPL, is created using data from UK radio stations and television channels.

It has revealed the top 20 most played artists from the Say Award to celebrate the programme's 10th anniversary.

Nutini's third and most recent album, Caustic Love, was shortlisted for a Say Award in 2015.

He has sold nearly four million albums in the UK and has been awarded a total of 13 platinum certifications from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), the British recorded music industry's trade association.

Peter Leathem, chief executive officer at PPL, said: "The Say Award plays a crucial role in the Scottish music industry.

"For 10 years it has recognised artists who have added to the country's rich musical heritage, from rap and hip-hop to folk and pop, and PPL is proud to help celebrate its 10th anniversary.

"We have been a long-term supporter of the Say Award and we look forward to another 10 years of fantastic music from some of Scotland's best artists."

The top 20 in order are as follows: Paolo Nutini, Biffy Clyro, Franz Ferdinand, Chvrches, Belle & Sebastian, Mogwai, Twin Atlantic, Boards Of Canada, Django Django, Young Fathers, Admiral Fallow, King Creosote, The Snuts, C Duncan, Honeyblood, Steve Mason, Karine Polwart, Errors, Arab Strap, Slam.

The winner of this year's Say Award will be announced at Edinburgh's Usher Hall on Saturday, October 23, after being forced online last year due to the Covid pandemic.

The winner will take home £20,000, while all nine runners-up will be awarded £1,000 and their own bespoke award.