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 motivated Piero Pelù to leave X (formerly Twitter), and how does he connect this decision to the broader implications for democracy and freedom?
**Interview with Musician Piero Pelù on Leaving X (formerly Twitter)**
**Host:** Today, we’re joined by Piero Pelù, the frontman of the iconic Italian rock band Litfiba, who recently decided to leave X (the platform formerly known as Twitter). Piero, thanks for being here.
**Pelù:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** You’ve expressed that you believe Elon Musk poses a threat to democracy and freedom. Can you elaborate on what prompted your decision to leave X?
**Pelù:** Absolutely. My decision was influenced by Musk’s alarming neo-imperialist statements and his ongoing actions that seem to undermine democratic values. I feel it’s crucial to signal civil resistance against such influences. Many people might think I’m overreacting, but this is about standing up for what I believe is right in today’s world.
**Host:** You’re not alone in your disappointment. Other notable figures like composer Nicola Piovani and singer Francesco Guccini have also stepped away from the platform. What does this collective movement signify to you?
**Pelù:** It shows that we’re not just voices in isolation. Many of us in the creative community are gravely concerned about the direction X is headed. It’s essential to take a stand together, promoting a message that aligns with preserving our democratic ideals.
**Host:** Some people argue that social media platforms like X play a significant role in shaping political discourse. How do you view this influence?
**Pelù:** Definitely. Musk’s ownership has already changed the platform’s nature. It has become a breeding ground for extreme ideas and misinformation, which is dangerous. As a musician and a citizen, I cannot support a platform that facilitates this kind of manipulation.
**Host:** Recently, you criticized Musk for suggesting that “judges have to go” in relation to Italian politics. What are your thoughts on the implications of such statements from a figure of his stature?
**Pelù:** It’s incredibly reckless. Statements like those undermine the sovereignty of nations and contradict the principles of democracy. It’s crucial for influential people to respect the autonomy of a country’s legal system. We in Italy can manage our own affairs without external meddling.
**Host:** The response from Italian President Sergio Mattarella was quite firm, emphasizing the need for respect towards Italy’s sovereignty. How significant do you think such responses are in the current political climate?
**Pelù:** They’re vital. It’s important for leaders to protect their country’s interests and maintain independence from outside influences. We need to remind everyone that democracy and justice must come from within, not be dictated by anyone else.
**Host:** do you think this wave of artists stepping away from X will have a tangible impact on the platform’s future?
**Pelù:** I hope so. If enough of us take a stand, it could raise awareness and potentially spark change. It’s about making a statement—a clear message that we will not tolerate platforms that erode our values and rights.
**Host:** Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Piero. It’s encouraging to hear about artists like you advocating for democracy and freedom.
**Pelù:** Thank you for having me; it’s important that we keep this conversation alive.
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