Of course it is rigged. The record companies have always rigged what gets played on the air and who will become the music biz 'stars'. Have you not noticed that the only 'big things' in music in the last 10 years have been AI contestants? Some of these people have a bit of experience, but few have actually paid their dues in the business. Unfortunately, you'll have to go searching on the net to find those who deserve the fame and money, but at least it's easier to find them that way than in the past. I am proud that I have NEVER watched a single episode of this slap-in-the-face to real talent.