And has everyone missed the point being made in the review?
It isn't discussing who is the most significant country artist. it's discussing who is the most significant country artist based on a certain criteria. In this case, that criteria is Carrie's ability to attract a diverse audience.
It isn't talking about sales, critical acclaim, it isn't even talking about total attendance at her shows. It's talking about the healthy mix of people from different demographics who attend her concerts. So bringing up the opening week sales of "Red," awards, et al is irrelevant.