While that's partially true and also very relative (is a popstar based on absolute sales or total commercial exposure and demand like shows, blogs and on). Like RD sold 500k in a few months, Big Sean sold 300k in 1 year. Is Big Sean a bigger star than Jay-z was in 96? yes.
He didn't say anything about being a rap or pop star, he said having a #1 record. Which was harder before iTunes and the whole digital thing.
Drake does however deserve accolades for delivering, unlike a lot of these other new school dudes.
Not sure what your first paragraph is about. But the bolded is true. Like somebody said, Rihanna and Katy Perry both put out like 9 #1 singles every album.
Drake is one of those pop stars that they don't let fail.