VULVODYNIA Vocalist Zion Bittenbender Responds to Allegations, Denies Claims in New Statement

South African deathcore band Vulvodynia are facing backlash following resurfaced allegations of sexual misconduct involving their new frontman, Zion Bittenbender. The band had only recently announced Bittenbender’s addition, with guitarist Luke Haarhoff calling him a key part of Vulvodynia’s “best music to date.”

After their first live performances with Bittenbender, an online post began circulating in which an individual accused the vocalist of sexual assault and other forms of misconduct. The post included screenshots of alleged messages exchanged between the two.

In light of the situation, Vulvodynia issued an official statement on November 6th:

“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.”

Zion Bittenbender also issued a personal statement denying the allegations, calling them “false and deeply hurtful.”

“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,” he said.

“I have remained silent out of respect for privacy, but the continued spread of these falsehoods has left me no choice but to speak publicly. I take matters like this very seriously and have always conducted myself with integrity and respect toward others.”

Bittenbender stated that he is pursuing legal and professional steps to address what he described as “defamation and harassment.”

The vocalist joined Vulvodynia earlier this year to take over lead vocal duties from guitarist Lwandile Prusent, who temporarily assumed the role after former frontman Duncan Bentley exited the band in the wake of a violent incident.

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