Gospel Singer Panam Percy Paul Reveals Why He Turned Down £24 Million Record Deal

 

Veteran gospel singer, Panam Percy Paul, has opened up about a life-changing record deal he rejected in 1995 due to his unwavering faith.

In an interview with Pastor Emmanuel Iren, the legendary singer disclosed that he was offered a staggering £24 million contract for a three-year deal—an amount equivalent to ₦7 billion at the time. However, the offer came with a catch that clashed with his Christian beliefs.

According to Paul, the record label requested that he reduce the number of times he mentioned the name “Jesus” in his songs. They even suggested he use alternative terms like “Righteous One” or “Greatest Lover” instead.

Recalling his response, Paul said, “I was shocked, so I told them, ‘You can keep the money, while I keep the name.’”

The gospel icon also lamented the commercialization of gospel music, stating that many artists today are pressured by industry trends rather than staying true to their ministry.

“Today, music ministry has become a music industry. The industry now dictates what to do, how to sing, and when to sing. For example, it was the marketers in Alaba that encouraged musicians to add tongues to their songs,” he added.