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.
What are Piero Pelù’s main reasons for leaving X, and how do they reflect his views on freedom and democracy?
**Interview with Musician Piero Pelù on Leaving X**
*Interviewer*: Thank you for joining us today, Piero. You’ve made headlines recently by announcing your departure from X, formerly known as Twitter. Can you share what prompted your decision?
*Piero Pelù*: Thank you for having me. My decision was driven by a deep concern for democracy and freedom. I see Elon Musk’s actions and statements as incredibly dangerous. They’ve crossed a line, and I felt it was essential to take a stand against what I view as a neo-imperialist attitude that threatens the values we hold dear.
*Interviewer*: You mentioned civil resistance in your announcement. Can you elaborate on what that means for you and others in the creative community?
*Piero Pelù*: Absolutely. Civil resistance is about making a clear statement. It’s important for us, as public figures, to send a message that we won’t stand idly by while our platforms are used to manipulate public opinion and undermine democratic institutions. It’s about showing solidarity with those who fight for freedom every day.
*Interviewer*: Other notable figures such as composers Nicola Piovani and Francesco Guccini have also distanced themselves from X. Do you think this trend will continue among other artists and public figures?
*Piero Pelù*: I certainly believe so. Artists, musicians, and public figures have a responsibility to use their voices for good. When a platform becomes toxic, as many are arguing, it’s crucial to reconsider our presence there. Creatives thrive on freedom of expression, and if a platform hampers that, it’s only natural for us to seek alternatives.
*Interviewer*: Speaking of alternatives, where do you plan to express your thoughts and music moving forward?
*Piero Pelù*: There are many platforms that promote healthy discourse and creativity without compromising our values. Whether it’s through personal websites, new social media, or even in-person events, I believe in the power of creating spaces where genuine connection can flourish.
*Interviewer*: Elon Musk recently tweeted regarding Italian judges, which sparked significant backlash, including comments from Italian President Sergio Mattarella. What’s your take on his influence in political matters?
*Piero Pelù*: Musk’s influence is concerning, especially when it comes to political affairs in other countries. Italy, like any nation, deserves respect for its sovereignty. Commenting on internal judicial matters shows a lack of understanding about democracy. It’s troubling to witness someone with so much power using their platform to sway political debates.
*Interviewer*: what message would you like to convey to your fans and the public about this situation?
*Piero Pelù*: I want to tell everyone that it’s okay to question where we put our energy and voices. The fight for freedom is ongoing, and every little resistance counts. We must be vigilant and proactive in protecting our rights and values, whether in the music industry or any other field.
*Interviewer*: Thank you, Piero, for sharing your thoughts and insights. It’s a pleasure speaking with you.
*Piero Pelù*: Thank you for having me. Let’s keep the conversation alive!