The South African deathcore band Vulvodynia is currently facing significant turmoil. Following serious allegations of sexual assault against their lead vocalist, Zion Bittenbender, he has decided to withdraw from the band’s ongoing tour.
On November 6th, in response to the situation, Metal Injection reported that Vulvodynia issued a statement via Facebook: “We are aware of the grave allegations that have emerged online concerning one of our members. We understand how distressing and emotional this information can be for many in our community, and we recognize the strong reactions it has provoked. We want to assure everyone that we are treating this matter with utmost seriousness. Out of respect for all parties involved and to ensure a fair and responsible handling of this issue, we will allow appropriate legal channels to take their course before making any further comments.”
Bittenbender,addressing the accusations on his Instagram account,stated: “Recently,false and deeply damaging claims have been made about me online. I want to address this directly and clearly. The allegations being circulated are entirely untrue. I have not committed any act I am accused of, nor have I ever been charged or investigated for such a crime.”
“Regrettably,” he continued, “these accusations have resurfaced multiple times over the years and caused unneeded harm to both my personal life and career. I’ve remained silent out of respect for privacy because I believed that truth would prevail on its own; however, the persistent spread of these lies has compelled me to speak out publicly.”
“I cherish my two sisters and girlfriend dearly; being accused of harming a woman is something I could never do.Those who know me personally understand my character well enough to know that such actions are completely contrary to who I am.” He emphasized his commitment to integrity in all aspects of life.
“I am taking appropriate legal steps against these defamatory statements,” he added. ”I will refrain from discussing this matter further on social media as making baseless allegations about something so serious detracts from what real victims endure; my heart goes out to them.” He expressed gratitude towards those who offered support during this challenging time.
A few days later came confirmation thatZion Bittenbender would no longer be joiningVulvodynia on tour—a role he had taken up temporarily while guitaristLwandile Prusent suspended his vocal duties but will now resume them due to recent developments.
The latest update regarding Bittenbender’s absence was shared through Vulvodynia’s Instagram account: “In light of recent allegations involving our vocalist,< strong>Zion Bittenbender,we need to make adjustments regarding our touring schedule.” They elaborated:
“After careful consideration,< strong>Zion would be returning home from our current Asian tour to focus on resolving these issues through proper legal channels as managing everything responsibly while continuing an international tour would prove extremely difficult.” This decision was made with everyone’s best interests at heart.
< strong>Lwandile Prusent , who originally fronted Vulvodynia before shifting back into guitar duties will now take over vocal responsibilities again throughout 2025 ensuring commitments remain fulfilled.
“We appreciate everyone’s understanding during this sensitive time as we navigate through it respectfully,” they concluded.< / p >