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, 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 his departure from X contributes to the broader conversation about democratic values and civil resistance?
**Interview with Musician and Activist Piero Pelù on Leaving X**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Piero Pelù, frontman of the rock band Litfiba. Thank you for joining us today. You’ve recently made headlines by closing your profile on X. Can you share what prompted this decision?
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. My decision to leave X stemmed from a fundamental belief that Elon Musk is a threat to democracy and freedom. His recent comments and actions, which I perceive as neo-imperialist, have pushed me to take a stand. This isn’t just about social media for me—it’s about civil resistance in a time when we need to be vocal against such dangerous rhetoric.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned civil resistance. How do you see your departure from X as a form of protest?
**Piero Pelù:** In today’s world, every action counts. By leaving X, I aim to raise awareness about the issues at hand. Many people have told me I’m overreacting, but I believe it’s crucial to demonstrate where we stand. It’s imperative to show that we won’t accept platforms that manipulate political discourse and compromise democracy.
**Interviewer:** Other prominent figures, such as Nicola Piovani and Francesco Guccini, have voiced similar concerns. Do you think this collective withdrawal will have any impact on X?
**Piero Pelù:** I hope so. When artists and influencers step away from a platform, it sends a message that we are not willing to support an environment that allows harmful ideologies to flourish. It’s not just about one person leaving; it’s about the collective voice of those who fear for the integrity of our democratic values.
**Interviewer:** Recently, Musk publicly commented on the Italian judiciary, stating, “These judges have to go.” What’s your reaction to such statements?
**Piero Pelù:** Those comments are incredibly reckless. It’s disrespectful to the democratic processes of other countries. Italy, like any democratic nation, can handle its own affairs. Musk’s influence should not extend to meddling in our judiciary. Leaders, especially those in influential positions, must respect national sovereignty and the systems in place to uphold democracy.
**Interviewer:** major publications like *The Guardian* have also decided to step back from X, referring to it as a “toxic media platform.” What are your thoughts on that?
**Piero Pelù:** I’m glad to see established platforms recognizing the dangers associated with Musk’s ownership of X. The spreading of extremist ideas and the rollback of content moderation are concerns we should all share. Our public discourse deserves better, and we must push for a media environment that fosters healthy conversations instead of divisive strategies.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Piero. Your perspective is important in these challenging times.
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we all stay informed and engaged in these discussions.
