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.
What role do you believe social media platforms play in shaping public discourse and democracy?
**Interview with Musician Piero Pelù on Leaving Platform X**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Piero. Thanks for joining us. Recently, you announced that you’re leaving X, formerly Twitter. Can you share what motivated this decision?
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. My decision to leave X stems from my deep concern about Elon Musk’s influence on the platform. I believe that he poses a threat to democracy and freedom of expression. His neo-imperialist rhetoric and actions contradict the principles of civil liberty that I hold dear. It’s crucial for artists and public figures to stand against such developments in any way we can.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that many people think you’re “crazy” for this decision. Why do you think it’s important to take this stand despite the pushback?
**Piero Pelù:** It might seem extreme to some, but I see it as a necessary form of civil resistance. When influential figures like Musk start manipulating political narratives and undermining democratic values, it’s vital to show dissent. Silence in the face of such power is complicity. I hope my decision will encourage others to reflect on where we want to put our voices.
**Interviewer:** Other notable figures, including Francesco Guccini and Nicola Piovani, have also left the platform. What does this collective action mean to you?
**Piero Pelù:** It signifies that there is a growing awareness among artists and public figures regarding the implications of our digital footprints. When respected voices band together in solidarity against injustices, it amplifies our message. We are united in our belief that our platforms should not propagate harmful ideologies or misinformation.
**Interviewer:** Recently, Musk made controversial comments about the Italian judiciary as well. What do you think of his statements suggesting that “these judges have to go”?
**Piero Pelù:** That was alarming. It shows a blatant disregard for the independence of judicial institutions. Such comments undermine the rule of law and demonstrate how a powerful individual can attempt to exert influence over democratic processes in another country. Italy is a sovereign nation and should manage its affairs without interference.
**Interviewer:** You’re not alone in your views; even publications like The Guardian are reconsidering their relationship with X. Where do you think this trend could lead?
**Piero Pelù:** I believe it’s indicative of a broader dissatisfaction and disillusionment with platforms that prioritize profit over healthy discourse. If more creators and institutions withdraw, it could lead to a reevaluation of what we expect from social media. Ideally, this could push for reform or the emergence of alternative platforms that uphold democratic values and foster genuine dialog.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Piero, for sharing your insights. It seems that your stance might inspire others to think critically about their engagement with social media.
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope our actions lead to positive change.