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.
### Interview with Francesco Guccini: A Departure from X
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Francesco. As a prominent figure in the music world, your decision to leave X (formerly Twitter) has made headlines. Can you share what prompted your departure?
**Francesco Guccini**: Thank you for having me. My decision to leave X stems from my profound disagreement with Elon Musk’s vision and actions since he took over. I believe the platform has become a tool for political manipulation, and I no longer want to be associated with that.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned that Musk’s ideas are “light years away” from your own. Could you elaborate on what specific aspects concern you?
**Francesco Guccini**: Absolutely. Musk’s recent statements, particularly his direct interference in political matters—like commenting on the Italian judiciary—demonstrate a lack of respect for the sovereignty of democratic institutions. This neo-imperialist attitude is troubling and is not something I can support.
**Interviewer**: Many people, including artists and politicians, have echoed your sentiments. Do you feel there is a growing movement against Musk’s influence on social media?
**Francesco Guccini**: Yes, I believe there is. Artists like Piero Pelù and even political figures, such as MEP Sandro Ruotolo, are making similar statements. There is a clear need for civil resistance against platforms that promote toxic ideas and undermine democracy.
**Interviewer**: Speaking of toxicity, The Guardian referred to X as a “toxic media platform.” Do you agree with this assessment?
**Francesco Guccini**: I do. Since Musk’s acquisition, we’ve seen a resurgence of harmful content and extremist views. It’s disheartening to see accounts that were previously banned for promoting hate being reinstated. Such an environment can only confuse and mislead the public.
**Interviewer**: What do you hope will come from your decision to leave X and the actions of other prominent figures?
**Francesco Guccini**: I hope it will inspire others to reflect on their engagement with social media. We must recognize the impact of these platforms on our political discourse and society at large. It’s crucial to support spaces that uphold democratic values and promote respectful dialogue.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Francesco, for your insights. Your departure is a strong statement, and we appreciate your commitment to civil resistance in these challenging times.
**Francesco Guccini**: Thank you. I believe it’s essential for all of us to stand for what we believe in and encourage positive change.