Johnmark Wiggan sets the tone with ‘By Fire’ preview

The atmosphere inside the Vera Moody Concert Hall at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts shifted quickly on Wednesday evening when what appeared to be an ordinary gathering of media and guests transformed into worship. Without warning, members of Genesis Praise Squad emerged from the audience, breaking into a flash-mob style performance that set the tone for the official media launch of By Fire, the upcoming album and live worship experience from gospel artiste Johnmark Wiggan.

By Fire is rooted in themes of transformation, refinement, and faith through difficult seasons, and the evening itself reflected that journey. Following the opening performance, Wiggan took the stage for a candid discussion with Ity Ellis, guiding the audience through a thoughtful conversation about the experiences and spiritual process that shaped the album.

Rather than presenting a polished narrative of success, Wiggan spoke openly about the season of growth that informed the project. “Sometimes we celebrate the testimony but forget the process that produces it,” he shared during the discussion. “ By Fire came out of learning to trust God in moments when things were uncomfortable but necessary.”

The attendees were then given an exclusive listening preview of two unreleased songs, including a collaboration with Alicia Taylor, the evening’s host and a respected vocal coach in Jamaica’s music community. While the full production of By Fire will unfold during the album launch on March 28 at Jamaica College, Wednesday’s gathering offered a glimpse into the tone and spirit of the project.

The evening closed on a reflective note as Wiggan returned to the stage for an acoustic performance, allowing the room to experience the music in its most stripped-down form. The audience also received an early look at the album’s cover artwork.

Beyond the music, the project carries a social mission. Part of the album launch proceeds will support a student housing initiative for tertiary students studying at the School of Music at Edna Manley College. Speaking at the launch, Wiggan said, “If our worship doesn’t move us to care for people, then we’ve missed something. By Fire is about transformation that produces impact.”

Representatives from Edna Manley College community and corporate partners highlighted their support for the initiative, emphasising the importance of partnerships that combine creativity, culture, and social responsibility. Through the By Fire project, organisers hope to contribute to a growing conversation about how creative initiatives can also address real community needs.

The worship experience will also see performances by Kevin Downswell, Rondell Positive, Prince Saj, Rian Davis, Audia Spencer-Brown, among others.

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