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.
How does Piero Pelù view the collective response of artists and public figures leaving X in relation to democratic values?
**Interview with Piero Pelù: Critique of Elon Musk and His Influence on X**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Piero Pelù. You’ve recently made headlines by leaving the platform X due to your concerns about Elon Musk. Can you share what prompted your decision?
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. My decision to close my profile on X stems from what I believe are extremely dangerous and neo-imperialist statements from Elon Musk. I feel that his actions and rhetoric pose a significant threat to democracy and freedom. In today’s turbulent political climate, I believe it is crucial to take a stand and show civil resistance against such influences.
**Interviewer:** You’re not alone in this sentiment. Other prominent figures, including Nicola Piovani and Francesco Guccini, have also decided to step away from X. What do you think this collective response signifies?
**Piero Pelù:** It shows that many artists and public figures are not willing to compromise their values in the face of such troubling leadership. We are all deeply concerned about how platforms like X can manipulate political discourse and amplify harmful ideologies. By leaving, we are making a statement that we refuse to participate in a platform that compromises our democratic principles.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of manipulation, Musk’s recent comments regarding Italian judiciary have stirred controversy. What’s your perspective on his involvement in other countries’ political matters?
**Piero Pelù:** Musk’s comments about the Italian judicial system are an example of overreach. It’s inappropriate for someone in his position, especially with ties to powerful politicians like Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, to suggest that our democratic institutions need to change. Commenting on other nations’ internal affairs undermines their sovereignty and can lead to dangerous consequences.
**Interviewer:** Italian President Sergio Mattarella responded to Musk by stating that Italy can take care of itself. How significant do you think such reactions are in the broader context of global governance?
**Piero Pelù:** Extremely significant. It demonstrates that nations are asserting their sovereignty and rejecting external influence, especially from someone as influential as Musk. When leaders stand up against foreign interference, it strengthens democratic institutions and showcases a commitment to national integrity.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, major media outlets like The Guardian have also distanced themselves from X, labeling it a “toxic media platform.” Do you think this could lead to a broader movement against platforms that don’t uphold democratic values?
**Piero Pelù:** Absolutely. The media plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. When respected outlets choose to withdraw from a platform due to its toxic environment, it sends a powerful message. This could inspire others to reconsider their participation in spaces that do not align with their values. It’s all part of a larger movement advocating for responsible media and respectful dialog in our society.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Piero, for sharing your insights and standing up for what you believe in. It’s been enlightening to hear your perspective on these critical issues.
**Piero Pelù:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue to engage in these discussions for the sake of our future.
