Kendrick Lamar's album, 'GNX,' has reached a significant milestone, becoming the first rap album in 2025 to sell one million units in the U.S. This achievement follows Lamar's Super Bowl Halftime Show performance. Meanwhile, Drake has filed a defamation lawsuit against UMG, alleging manipulation of sales for Lamar's diss track, "Not Like Us." Despite the legal battle, both artists continue to dominate the music charts.
In other news, J-Hope of BTS acknowledged a dance cover of his song "Mona Lisa" by Filipina social media personality Niana Guerrero. J-Hope reposted her video on his Instagram story and left positive emojis on her post. The BTS member will be visiting Manila in April for his first solo tour, 'Hope on the Stage'.
Controversy has arisen regarding fees charged by gospel musicians. Pastor Femi Lazarus revealed that some artists request as much as $10,000 USD to perform in churches. These requests often include first-class travel, executive hotel suites, and catering for large entourages. Pastor Lazarus criticized this practice, stating that it commercializes a gift that should be freely given.