Panam Percy Paul: Why I Said No To ₦7 Billion And Kept Jesus In My Songs

When Faith Meets Opportunity: Dr. Panam Percy Paul’s Bold Decision

There are moments in life when you’re faced with choices that test your values and principles. For veteran gospel singer Dr. Panam Percy Paul, one such moment came in 1995, when he was offered a contract worth £24 million (about ₦7 billion at the time). But here's the kicker—it wasn’t just any deal; it was an international record contract that could have catapulted him to global stardom. So, why did he say no? Because sometimes, staying true to yourself is more important than chasing fame or fortune.

The Deal That Changed Everything

During a candid conversation with Pastor Emmanuel Iren, Dr. Panam Percy Paul opened up about this pivotal moment in his career. He recounted how, back in 1995, he was approached by a major label with an offer too good to refuse—for most people, anyway. The deal promised financial security, widespread recognition, and access to global audiences. But there was a catch, and it was one that Dr. Paul simply couldn’t swallow.

The Price of Success

The record label had one condition: they wanted him to tone down the mention of “Jesus” in his music. That’s right. They weren’t asking for a small tweak; they were essentially asking him to strip away the very essence of his artistry. According to Dr. Paul, they even suggested alternatives like referring to Jesus as the “Righteous One” or the “Greatest Lover.” Can you imagine? For someone who built his entire career on spreading the gospel through song, this was a non-negotiable dealbreaker.

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Standing Firm: Dr. Paul’s Unyielding Faith

When faced with this proposition, Dr. Paul didn’t hesitate for a second. He knew exactly what mattered most to him—his faith and his message. He famously replied, “You can keep the money, while I keep the name.” It’s a bold statement that underscores his commitment to staying true to his beliefs, no matter the cost. At the height of his career, when £24 million was a life-changing sum, Dr. Paul chose integrity over wealth. That’s not just inspiring—it’s legendary.

The Evolution of Gospel Music

In reflecting on his journey, Dr. Panam Percy Paul also shared his thoughts on how the music industry has evolved over the years. He expressed concern about the shift from ministry-focused music to a profit-driven industry. Today, he believes that marketers and record labels often dictate the creative process, sometimes at the expense of authenticity. For instance, he mentioned how marketers in places like Alaba encouraged musicians to incorporate speaking in tongues into their songs, regardless of whether it aligned with their spiritual convictions. This highlights a growing disconnect between art and commerce in the gospel music scene.

Lessons from Dr. Paul’s Story

Dr. Panam Percy Paul’s decision teaches us a powerful lesson: staying true to your values is often the hardest but most rewarding path. In a world where compromise seems like the norm, his story reminds us that there’s strength in standing firm. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone navigating life’s challenges, his example shows us that authenticity and conviction can lead to lasting impact. After all, what good is success if it comes at the cost of your soul?

So, the next time you’re faced with a tough decision, ask yourself: Would I be willing to turn down ₦7 billion to stay true to my beliefs? If the answer is yes, then you’re in good company with Dr. Panam Percy Paul.