Vulvodynia announced a significant change to their touring plans following allegations against vocalist Zion Bittenbender. The band shared this statement on Vulvodynia’s official Instagram.
The band addressed the situation and explained their decision regarding the remainder of their 2025 tour schedule. They outlined how they plan to move forward while handling the matter responsibly.
“Following the recent allegations circulating online involving our vocalist, Zion Bittenbender, we want to provide an update regarding our touring plans,” the band said. “After careful discussion, Zion will be returning home from our current tour in Asia to focus on addressing these matters through the appropriate legal channels. Handling this responsibly would be extremely difficult while continuing to tour internationally. This decision has been made in everyone’s best interests.”
The band announced a change in vocal duties to ensure their commitments are fulfilled for the remainder of the year.
“Lwandile Prusent, who originally fronted Vulvodynia and has since been performing on guitar, will resume vocal duties for the remainder of 2025 to ensure our commitments are fulfilled,” the statement continued. “We appreciate everyone’s understanding and support while this situation is handled properly and respectfully.”
The controversy emerged in late 2025 when the South African deathcore band faced serious public scrutiny. An anonymous woman who claimed to be Bittenbender’s former fiancée publicly accused him of sexual assault and misconduct. She alleged multiple incidents of non-consensual sexual acts, including claims that Bittenbender engaged in sexual acts with her while she was asleep and unable to consent, as reported by Metal Sucks.
The accuser provided screenshots of alleged text messages as evidence. She claimed that Bittenbender had admitted to paying for nude pictures of her and apologized for his actions. Lambgoat detailed an incident where she refused his advances, after which she “curled up into a ball” and he left the room. He later questioned her about being embarrassed by her behavior.
Bittenbender has denied the allegations, calling them “false and deeply hurtful.” He stated he would pursue legal action against those making the accusations. The PRP reported that he emphasized he would never harm a woman, citing his relationship with his sisters and girlfriend as evidence of his character.
Bittenbender has stepped away from the band’s touring activities as of November 2025. He remains officially a member pending the outcome of any legal proceedings. No formal charges have been filed, and the situation remains under investigation. Vulvodynia’s decision to have Prusent resume vocal duties allows the band to continue fulfilling their touring commitments while the allegations are addressed through appropriate legal channels.
This case has sparked significant discussion within the metal community about accountability, due process, and how bands respond to allegations against members. The situation underscores the growing scrutiny facing the music industry regarding misconduct allegations. It highlights the importance of transparent responses from both artists and organizations.
