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 do you envision the future of social media evolving in response to the current challenges posed by influential figures like Elon Musk?
**Interview with Piero Pelù: A Stand Against X and Elon Musk**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Piero. Recently, you’ve made headlines by closing your account on X, previously known as Twitter. Can you explain what motivated this decision?
**Piero Pelù:** Absolutely. My decision was driven by the alarming trajectory that X has taken under Elon Musk’s ownership. I see Musk’s rhetoric as not only dangerous but also as a direct threat to our democracy and freedom. This isn’t just about social media; it’s about the principles that underpin our society.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the idea of “civil resistance.” Can you elaborate on what that means to you in this context?
**Piero Pelù:** Civil resistance, for me, is about taking a stand and making it clear that we don’t accept harmful ideologies or actions, especially from influential figures like Musk. By leaving the platform, I hope to encourage others to critically evaluate where they engage and what they support. It’s a small but significant protest against lies and manipulation.
**Interviewer:** Nicola Piovani and Francesco Guccini have also distanced themselves from X. Do you think this collective action will have a wider impact?
**Piero Pelù:** I believe so. When public figures step back from a platform, it sends a powerful message. Music and art hold a mirror to society, and our choices can influence others. The more we speak out against toxic environments, the more we encourage meaningful conversations about what we want from our media and our leaders.
**Interviewer:** Following your departure from X, what steps do you think should be taken to promote healthier dialogue online?
**Piero Pelù:** We need to demand accountability from social media platforms. This means stricter content moderation policies, clearer regulations against hate speech and misinformation, and fostering an environment where constructive debate can flourish. It’s essential that we prioritize platforms that align with democratic values and support diverse voices.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how do you see the relationship between culture and politics evolving in light of these developments?
**Piero Pelù:** Culture and politics are deeply intertwined. As artists and creatives, we have a responsibility to engage with the political landscape while advocating for freedom and truth. The current situation is a wake-up call that we must use our platforms wisely, standing for values that protect democracy and promote inclusivity. Change starts with us, and we need to lead by example.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Piero, for sharing your insights with us. Your commitment to these values is commendable and resonates with many.
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. Let’s continue the conversation and keep pushing for change.