Sheryl Crow has never been one to stay silent on issues close to her heart. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has used her platform to speak out on everything from environmental activism to politics, but her latest move has set off a firestorm of debate.

In a public stand against Elon Musk’s political influence, Crow recently announced that she had sold her Tesla and donated the entire proceeds to NPR, the public radio network that Musk has repeatedly criticized.

Her decision, which she documented on social media, has sparked a heated discussion—dividing her fans, drawing backlash, and reigniting conversations about Musk’s growing role in American politics.

But this was more than just a symbolic act.

Crow’s message? Who you align with matters.

Sheryl Crow Calls Out Elon Musk—And Bids Her Tesla Farewell

The Missouri-born singer, now 63, has been outspoken about her political views, often clashing with conservative voices and figures aligned with former President Donald Trump.

This time, however, her frustration was aimed at Elon Musk, who she believes is using his influence to reshape American society in ways that threaten journalism and democracy.

Taking to Instagram, Crow posted a video of herself standing beside her black Tesla, preparing to say goodbye.

With a mix of defiance and nostalgia, she addressed her followers:

“My parents always said… you are who you hang out with. There comes a time when you have to decide who you are willing to align with. So long, Tesla.”

The camera rolled as a tow truck arrived, loaded the Tesla onto its bed, and drove it away—a dramatic farewell that was impossible to ignore.

For Crow, this was more than just selling a car. It was a message—a rejection of what she sees as Elon Musk’s dangerous influence on public discourse.

And she didn’t stop there.

She took the money from the sale and donated it to NPR, the news organization that Musk has openly criticized, labeling it “state-affiliated media” on X (formerly Twitter).

Why Is Sheryl Crow Protesting Elon Musk?

Crow’s frustration with Musk goes beyond his business empire. She has been increasingly vocal about his political ties, his influence over technology and media, and his apparent alignment with figures like Donald Trump.

Her donation to NPR wasn’t random. It was a direct response to Musk’s repeated attacks on the network, where he has suggested that it should be defunded and forced to survive without public money.

“Money donated to @NPR, which is under threat by President Musk, in hopes that the truth will continue to find its way to those willing to know the truth.” — Sheryl Crow

Musk, who has described himself as politically independent, has still drawn criticism for his decisions and statements that many believe align with conservative and right-wing ideologies.

Crow’s concern? That Musk’s influence over social media, technology, and public narratives is a growing threat to objective journalism and free speech.

She’s not alone in this belief. Many critics argue that Musk’s control over platforms like X has allowed misinformation to spread unchecked, while his moves to redefine public discourse have made it harder for legitimate news organizations to reach their audiences.

By selling her Tesla and donating the proceeds, Crow made it clear where she stands.

The Backlash—Critics Call Crow “Woke” and Out of Touch

As expected, Crow’s public stand didn’t sit well with everyone.

While many fans applauded her decision, others saw it as pointless virtue signaling, questioning whether selling a single Tesla would actually have any impact on Musk’s billion-dollar empire.

Social media was flooded with reactions, ranging from admiration to outright hostility.

Supporters praised her boldness, calling her an example of using one’s platform and wealth for good.
Critics called her “woke” and out of touch, arguing that she was just another celebrity trying to stay relevant by attacking Musk.
Some accused her of hypocrisy, pointing out that she had already benefited from Musk’s technology before deciding to take a stand.

One particularly harsh comment gained traction online:

“Just because you had a hit 30 years ago doesn’t mean anyone cares about your opinion, or even remembers who you are.”

Others mocked her for selling her Tesla, arguing that she was simply replacing it with another luxury car and that her donation to NPR was just a publicity stunt.

But Crow remained unfazed.

For her, this wasn’t about making a dent in Musk’s fortune—it was about sending a message.

Elon Musk vs. NPR: A Bigger Battle

Crow’s protest is just one chapter in the ongoing battle between Elon Musk and mainstream journalism outlets like NPR.

Musk has repeatedly accused NPR of biased reporting, aligning with figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has called for investigations into whether NPR and PBS have ignored stories critical of the Biden administration.

On X, Musk has made his stance clear:

“Defund NPR. It should survive on its own.”

His supporters argue that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t fund media organizations that lean politically left, while critics warn that defunding public broadcasting would weaken independent journalism and deepen misinformation problems.

By choosing NPR as the recipient of her donation, Crow sent a direct message to Musk and his supporters—one that will likely keep this debate alive for weeks to come.

A History of Political Outspokenness

This isn’t the first time Sheryl Crow has taken a political stand—and it certainly won’t be the last.

In 2017, she publicly hoped that Donald Trump would be impeached, describing his presidency as “nothing but chaos”.
On Election Day, she openly supported Kamala Harris, saying that she voted for a candidate who represented “empathy, compassion, and a heart for the underserved” rather than “hate and division”.
She has also expressed deep concern over the state of American democracy, stating that the uncertainty and misinformation surrounding politics have caused her sleepless nights.

Her latest move is just another chapter in her long history of activism—one that will undoubtedly continue to spark conversation and controversy.

Final Thoughts: Will This Protest Matter?

Sheryl Crow’s decision to sell her Tesla might not change the course of history, but it has succeeded in reigniting a crucial debate.

Her protest isn’t just about a car or a donation—it’s about the larger conversation surrounding power, influence, and media control.

Whether you see her as a courageous activist standing up for what she believes in or just another celebrity trying to stay relevant, one thing is certain:

She’s made sure people are paying attention.

And in today’s world, that’s half the battle.