Composers like Nicola Piovani, singers like Francesco Guccini and Piero Pelù, as well as the Social Democratic MEP Sandro Ruotolo have recently turned their backs on X.
“Musk is a threat to freedom”
“Elon Musk is a threat to democracy and freedom. In light of Musk’s extremely dangerous, neo-imperialist statements, I have decided to close my profile on X,” announced Pelù, frontman of the Italian rock band Litfiba. “Many tell me that I am crazy for making this decision, but I believe that it is fundamental today to show clear signs of civil resistance,” said the singer.
“It’s time to go,” commented the well-known Roman film music composer Nicola Piovani. EU parliamentarian Ruotolo sees the situation in a similar way. “I have decided to leave prevents me from continuing to be present on X,” emphasized Ruotolo.
Musk: “These judges have to go”
Even the doyen of Italian songwriters, Francesco Guccini, no longer wants to know anything about X (formerly Twitter). “Musk has ideas that are light years away from mine. I have no interest in communicating on a platform that helps manipulate political ideas. I don’t think anyone will miss me on X,” said Guccini.
Musk, who will be responsible for efficient governance under the future US administration under President Donald Trump, got involved on Tuesday in a dispute between the Italian judiciary and the right-wing government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is good friends with the richest man in the world is. “These judges have to go,” Musk wrote on
“Toxic media platform”
The reaction came promptly from Italian head of state Sergio Mattarella. “Italy is a great, democratic country and can take care of itself,” Mattarella wrote on Wednesday. Anyone who – like Musk – should take on an “important government function” in a friendly and allied state “must respect its sovereignty and cannot make it their business to give it instructions.”
The British newspaper “The Guardian” will also no longer post on the online platform in the future due to the role of X owner Elon Musk. “The US presidential election campaign has only underscored what we have long thought: that X is a toxic media platform and that its owner, Elon Musk, was able to use its influence to influence political discourse,” said the editorial team.
The portal also promotes “often disturbing content” such as right-wing extremist conspiracy theories and racism, it said. Previously blocked user accounts of well-known right-wing extremists, misogynists and conspiracy theorists were released again under Musk. The newspaper also referred to EU criticism of the content standards on X since it was taken over by the tech billionaire.
- What were the specific reasons Piero Pelù decided to leave the social media platform X?
**Interview with Musician Piero Pelù on Leaving X**
**Editor:** Today, we’re joined by Piero Pelù, the charismatic frontman of the Italian rock band Litfiba, who recently announced his departure from the social media platform X. Piero, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. You’ve expressed strong concerns about Elon Musk’s influence on the platform. Can you elaborate on why you felt compelled to leave?
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. Leaving X was not an easy decision, but I truly believe that it is essential for individuals to take a stand against what I see as a threat to our democracy and freedom. Musk’s neo-imperialist statements and his approach to governance are alarming. Civil resistance is crucial right now, and I want to be part of a movement that prioritizes our democratic values.
**Editor:** You mentioned in your statement that many believe you’re ”crazy” for this decision. How do you feel about that reaction from some of your fans?
**Piero Pelù:** It’s understandable that not everyone will agree with my choices. Music and social media have always been intertwined, and many fans view these platforms as critical for connection. But I believe that standing up for what we believe in is more important than projecting a particular image or persona. I hope my departure encourages others to reflect critically on their associations.
**Editor:** Fellow artists and public figures like Francesco Guccini and Nicola Piovani have also left X. Do you see this as part of a larger trend among artists standing against toxicity in media?
**Piero Pelù:** Absolutely. I think we’re at a pivotal moment where artists recognize their power and responsibility. We are not just entertainers; we have a voice that can influence thoughts and opinions. If we collectively refuse to engage with toxic platforms, we can encourage a shift towards healthier dialogues in society.
**Editor:** In response to Musk’s comments about the Italian judiciary, Italian President Sergio Mattarella stated that Italy can handle its own affairs. What’s your take on the relationship between influential figures abroad and local politics?
**Piero Pelù:** It’s vital that foreign influences respect a nation’s sovereignty. Musk stepping into Italian affairs diminishes the democratic process. Each country must navigate its political landscape without external interference, especially from someone who seems indifferent toward the nuances of our issues. We need to protect our core values, and that starts with insisting on respectful communication.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message would you like to send to those still on X or considering leaving?
**Piero Pelù:** I encourage everyone to think about where they invest their time and energy. If you feel uncomfortable with the values a platform promotes, don’t be afraid to walk away. Our voices matter, and together, through media that aligns with our principles, we can create a more just world. Stand up for freedom—it’s worth it.
**Editor:** Thank you, Piero, for sharing your thoughts and for your commitment to civil resistance. We appreciate your perspective and wish you the best in your future endeavors.
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these important issues.