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.
What are the potential long-term effects of influential figures leaving X on the platform’s credibility?
**Interview with Dr. Laura Chen, Media Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Chen. Given the recent reactions from prominent Italian artists and politicians regarding Elon Musk’s influence as the owner of X, what do you make of their decision to leave the platform?
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me. The exodus of these figures signals a significant turning point in how public figures view their responsibility in the digital age. Artists like Piero Pelù and Francesco Guccini are expressing a deep concern about the manipulation of political discourse on X—and their departure serves as a form of protest against that influence.
**Editor:** You mentioned manipulation of political discourse. Can you elaborate on how Musk’s ownership might contribute to this?
**Dr. Chen:** Absolutely. Elon Musk has demonstrated a willingness to engage in political matters openly, sometimes promoting or endorsing controversial stances. This raises concerns that his platform could become a vehicle for spreading misinformation or fostering divisive narratives. For artists and politicians committed to democratic values, distancing themselves from what they call a “toxic media platform” is a bold stand against these potential manipulations.
**Editor:** What are the implications of such high-profile departures from X for the platform itself?
**Dr. Chen:** The departure of influential figures can notably affect user engagement and the public perception of X. When respected individuals denounce the platform, it raises questions for their followers and the general public about the reliability and integrity of the content shared there. This could lead to further erosion of trust in the platform and might even accelerate the migration of users to alternative social media sites.
**Editor:** Italian President Sergio Mattarella responded strongly to Musk’s statements about the judiciary. How do you interpret his reaction?
**Dr. Chen:** President Mattarella’s remarks highlight the importance of national sovereignty and democratic integrity. By making it clear that Italy can govern itself without external interference, he is reinforcing the notion that foreign influences—especially from such a high-profile figure as Musk—are unwelcome. It’s a reminder that the global landscape is interconnected, yet each nation must guard its democratic processes against undue influence.
**Editor:** The Guardian also announced its decision to sever ties with X. What does this exemplify about changing attitudes toward media platforms?
**Dr. Chen:** The Guardian’s action reflects a broader shift among media organizations toward accountability and ethical responsibility. As the integrity of platforms comes under scrutiny, news outlets are increasingly choosing to distance themselves from those they perceive as damaging to democratic discourse. This trend could reshape how information is disseminated and exchanged in a digital world increasingly dominated by a few major players.
**Editor:** Lastly, what do you think the future holds for X and its owner, Elon Musk?
**Dr. Chen:** The future of X will likely depend on how Musk addresses the criticisms and concerns raised by users and public figures. If the platform continues to be associated with controversial content and governance issues, it may face a severe backlash leading to further attrition of key users. Conversely, if significant reforms are made, there may be a chance for recovery. The platform’s evolution will be a critical case study in balancing freedom of speech with social responsibility.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights today. It’s a fascinating and evolving situation that we will continue to watch closely.
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me!
