Rapper OG Version and Radio Director Saulius Baniulis Clash Over Music Airplay

A public spat has erupted between Lithuanian rapper OG Version and Saulius Baniulis, director of "Power Hit Radio," over the country's music airplay.

OG Version, whose real name is D. Ježerys, initiated the conflict by criticizing Lithuanian radio stations. He claimed that "Power Hit Radio" has been "bought" and that he himself is banned from the station. Ježerys directed harsh criticism at Baniulis, labeling him and other radio directors as "oldschool marozai" (a derogatory term implying uncultured, possibly criminal individuals) who allegedly accept bribes to play Lithuanian songs. He argued that popular online hits, like the song "Pupytės," should be widely broadcast, suggesting that current radio programming is "brainwashed" and induces "chaos, anxiety, and a pathetic feeling."

Responding to Ježerys's accusations, Baniulis firmly rejected the notion that OG Version was banned from "Power Hit Radio." He stated that not everything popular online deserves airtime, citing AI-generated music and Russian artists like AGATA as examples that, despite online traction, wouldn't be played on his station. Baniulis also questioned Ježerys's professionalism, suggesting his song titles were inconsistent and that his submission methods were inappropriate for radio. He even alluded to Ježerys's personal life and potential drug use, calling him a "simpleton."

Baniulis further commented on the prevalence of Russian music in Lithuania, noting that songs by MOT, Indiâ, and Xcho are popular on streaming platforms. He cited data from agata.lt showing Russian artists ranking second in Lithuania's streaming charts, urging listeners to discourage friends from supporting such music.