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 prompted Piero Pelù to take a stand against Elon Musk and leave X?
**Interview with Musician Piero Pelù on Leaving X**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Piero. You’ve recently made headlines by closing your profile on X. What led to your decision?
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. The decision to leave was not made lightly. I believe that Elon Musk represents a threat to democracy and freedom with his recent statements and actions. As an artist and a citizen, I feel it’s crucial to stand up against what I see as a neo-imperialist approach to governance and media control.
**Interviewer:** Many artists have expressed similar sentiments. Nicola Piovani and Francesco Guccini have also distanced themselves from the platform. Why do you think there’s such a strong collective reaction among creatives in Italy?
**Piero Pelù:** Artists have a unique role in society, often serving as the voice of the people. When we see a platform being used to manipulate political ideas rather than to foster healthy discourse, it becomes our responsibility to act. We need to send a clear message that civil resistance is essential in today’s world.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned Musk’s influence on political discourse. Can you elaborate on that?
**Piero Pelù:** Musk’s ownership of X allows him to amplify certain voices and narratives while silencing others. This power can drastically shift public opinion and, ultimately, democratic processes. For me, it’s about safeguarding the values we cherish in a democracy.
**Interviewer:** The Italian Head of State Sergio Mattarella responded to Musk’s comments about the judiciary, emphasizing Italy’s ability to govern itself. What are your thoughts on this?
**Piero Pelù:** I completely agree with President Mattarella. Italy is a sovereign nation, and we don’t need foreign influences telling us how to manage our internal affairs. It’s disrespectful and undermines our democratic principles.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what would you say to your fans and the public who might be unsure about your decision to leave X?
**Piero Pelù:** I understand that many might think it’s a drastic move, but it’s important to stand for our beliefs. By leaving, I hope to encourage others to reflect on the platforms they support and to prioritize platforms that align with democratic values. Change starts with us, and every action counts.
