VULVODYNIA’s New Vocalist ZION BITTENBENDER Denies Newly Surfaced Accusations Of Sexual Assault

Just weeks ago, South African deathcore band Vulvodynia was going through a line-up change, which they framed as a creative rebirth. The band officially introduced Zion Bittenbender as their new frontman, bringing in Bittenbender so guitarist Lwandile Prusent could step back from the role of frontman, a role Prusent had assumed after a violent altercation led to the dismissal of former vocalist Duncan Bentley.

At the time, guitarist Luke Haarhoff expressed full-throated enthusiasm in a November 5th statement: “We’re very excited to announce Zion Bittenbender as our new vocalist. We’ve been working with him behind the scenes for a while now, and the new material is sounding like the best music we’ve created to date. We can’t wait for all of you to hear the new era of Vulvodynia.”

Almost immediately after their first shows with Bittenbender on vocals, however, that forward momentum has collided with resurfaced accusations. A woman identifying herself as a former intimate partner publicly accused him of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, and other disturbing behavior, sharing screenshots she claims are conversations with him (which can be seen here).

Facing mounting public pressure, Vulvodynia issued a formal statement today (November 6th), acknowledging the allegations and signaling a deliberate, cautious stance.

“We’re aware of the serious allegations that have recently surfaced online involving one of our members. We know how distressing and emotional this kind of news can be, and we understand that many people in our community are reacting strongly to it. We want to make it clear that we are taking this matter very seriously. Out of respect for everyone involved, and to ensure that the situation is handled fairly and responsibly, we will be allowing the appropriate legal and professional channels to take their course before making any further comment.”

In parallel, Zion Bittenbender has released his own statement, unequivocally rejecting the accusations and framing them as recurring, baseless attacks on his character.

“Recently, false and deeply hurtful statements have been made about me online. I want to address this directly and clearly. The allegations being spread about me are completely untrue. I did not commit the act I am being accused of, and I have never been charged with or investigated for such a crime.

Unfortunately, these claims have resurfaced multiple times over the years and have caused unnecessary harm to my personal and professional life. I have remained silent out of respect for privacy and because I believed the truth would speak for itself. However, the continued spread of these falsehoods has left me no choice but to speak publicly.

I have 2 sisters and a girlfriend who I love dearly, and being accused of harming a woman is something I am completely incapable o,f and those who know me and my character know that I would never do such a thing. I take matters like this very seriously and have always conducted myself with integrity and respect toward others. Those who know me personally and professionally know the truth about my character.

I am taking appropriate legal and professional steps to address this defamation and harassment. I will not engage further on social media about this matter. I feel as though making false allegations of something as serious as this is taking away from what real victims have experienced and gone through, and my heart goes out to them.

Thank you to those who have reached out with support or concern. I appreciate your understanding as I handle this situation through the proper channels.”