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, has been able to use its influence to influence political discourse,” the editorial team said.
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.
How does Piero Pelù perceive Elon Musk’s influence on Italian politics and the potential impact on public discourse?
**Interview with Piero Pelù on Leaving X and Concerns about Musk’s Influence**
**Editor:** Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Piero Pelù, the frontman of the renowned Italian rock band Litfiba. Piero, you recently announced your departure from X. Can you elaborate on what motivated your decision?
**Piero Pelù:** Absolutely. My decision to leave X stems from a need to stand up against what I see as a serious threat to democracy and freedom. Elon Musk’s recent statements have displayed an alarming disregard for democratic principles, and I felt it was essential to take a stand. Civil resistance is more important now than ever.
**Editor:** You mentioned that some people think you’re crazy for leaving. What do you say to critics who might view this as an extreme measure?
**Piero Pelù:** I understand their perspective, but I believe that in times of crisis, each of us has a responsibility to make choices that reflect our values. If we remain passive, we risk normalizing harmful ideologies. Leaving X is my way of protesting against the platform’s complicity in manipulating political discourse.
**Editor:** Nicola Piovani and Francesco Guccini have also announced their departures. What do you think this collective action signifies in the cultural community?
**Piero Pelù:** It’s a powerful statement. When artists and public figures come together to reject a platform that they see as toxic, it highlights a broader sentiment in our society. We’re all concerned about the impact of misinformation and extremist content being amplified on social media. It shows that we are not just passive consumers; we’re active participants in shaping the narrative.
**Editor:** Musk has taken a direct interest in Italian politics, particularly with his comments about the judiciary in Italy. What are your thoughts on his involvement?
**Piero Pelù:** It’s inappropriate and unsolicited. His comments undermine the sovereignty of Italy and its democratic institutions. We need to maintain our autonomy in dealing with internal issues without external interference. It’s concerning that a private individual can wield such influence over public discourse and political matters.
**Editor:** The Guardian also stated it would cease posting on X due to Musk’s actions. What does this say about the media’s role in curbing misinformation?
**Piero Pelù:** The media has a critical role to play in holding platforms accountable. When reputable outlets like The Guardian decide to leave, it sends a clear message that they refuse to engage with an environment that allows harmful ideologies to flourish. It’s a courageous step in favor of integrity and responsibility in journalism.
**Editor:** Thank you, Piero, for sharing your insights. It’s evident that your decision is part of a larger conversation about freedom, media integrity, and the role of individuals in preserving democracy.
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep these conversations alive, and I hope more people will reconsider their engagement with platforms that undermine democratic values.