Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Vulvodynia’s new vocalist under fire due to heavy allegations
Due to unsettling accusations made against its newest member, vocalist Zion Bittenbender, South African deathcore group Vulvodynia has come under criticism. As reported by theprp, according to a statement released Monday by guitarist Luke Haarhoff, the group formally welcomed him into the fold last month.
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.
They recently performed their first gigs under Bittenbender’s direction, but since then, unsettling accusations against Bittebender have come to light. Concerning allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, and other offenses have been made by a lady who claims to be his former intimate relationship. You can view that post below, which has multiple screen grabs of alleged chats with Bittenbender.
In reaction to the accusations, Vulvodynia recently released an official statement on the subject.
Official Statement from Vulvodynia
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 a personal statement, Bittenbender refuted the accusations brought against him.
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 of 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.
