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. Given 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.
How does Piero Pelù believe that artists can inspire a cultural shift regarding the responsibility of social media use?
**Interview with Piero Pelù on Artists Leaving X**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Piero Pelù. You’ve recently announced your decision to leave X due to concerns about Elon Musk’s influence. Can you elaborate on what led to this pivotal choice?
**Piero Pelù:** Absolutely. For me, it was a matter of principle. Elon Musk’s statements and actions strike me as profoundly dangerous to democracy and freedom. I felt it was essential to take a stand and show civil resistance. Many might think I’m overreacting, but I believe that silence in the face of such threats is complicity.
**Editor:** You mentioned civil resistance—a term that resonates in various contexts. What do you hope your decision will inspire in others, particularly fellow artists and influencers?
**Piero Pelù:** I hope it encourages others to think critically about the platforms they use. If we, as public figures, continue to support a platform that manipulates political discourse and spreads harmful content, we are failing our responsibility to our audiences. I want musicians, actors, and everyone else to reflect on their impact and choices.
**Editor:** Other prominent figures, like Francesco Guccini and Nicola Piovani, have also distanced themselves from X. Do you think this movement among artists can lead to a broader cultural shift regarding social media platforms?
**Piero Pelù:** Absolutely. When artists unite for a cause, it amplifies the message. It’s not just about leaving a platform; it’s about advocating for a healthier discourse in our society. If more people realize that their voices can affect change, we could see a significant cultural shift towards more responsible digital engagement.
**Editor:** In response to Musk’s involvement with the Italian judiciary, President Sergio Mattarella emphasized Italy’s sovereignty. What are your thoughts on the international implications of these interactions?
**Piero Pelù:** It’s incredibly important. Musk’s comments imply that he sees himself as a player in global politics, which is troubling. Every country has the right to determine its judicial matters without interference from external figures, no matter how wealthy or powerful they are. This is a reminder that we must defend our sovereignty and democratic values fiercely.
**Editor:** what message would you like to convey to your fans and the broader public in light of these issues?
**Piero Pelù:** I want them to remember that our voices matter. We can choose where to invest our time and attention. Let’s support platforms that foster positive dialogue and respect for all individuals. Together, we can promote a world that values democracy, creativity, and freedom. Thank you for having me!