The music video is the only reason why Applause rebounded, sure it dropped after awhile but those 30m+ views are VITAL to streaming. Gaga reeled in the GP again with the VMAs, that's why it increased and she didn't try to steal anybodies spotlight. She came, gave her promo with an amazing performance and left.
Applause didn't "fall", it's been gaining sales. Eminem just had a massive debut so ofc he dropped her a spot
And nobody gives two ***** about a single cover, look at Roars. No shade but I mean... really? Underperforming cause of a single cover?