In every area of life, there are people who have paved the way and left their mark. Their experiences, struggles, and success can teach us a lot as we find our own path.

Today, we’re diving into the life of another legend in the gospel music industry – Panam Percy Paul.

Origins & Musical Beginnings

Percy Paul Mokungah, born around 1957–58 in Numan, Adamawa State, had a cool upbringing. His dad, Major Paul Harley, was an army officer, and his mom, Paulina, was into music as a composer. Growing up in a Christian household, he eventually settled in Jos, Plateau State, and that has been his home ever since.

He experienced a turning point when he became a born-again Christian on June 13, 1976. Not long after that, while studying at Kaduna Polytechnic, he kicked off his music journey. At just 20, he landed a gig at Radio ELWA Christian Communications as a production supervisor and sound engineer, which really helped him hone his musical talent and technical skills.

Read Also: Tope Alabi: The Journey of A Legend So Far

Gospel Oldies in Action

Panam’s music has that classic Gospel Oldies vibe: it’s all about deep worship, catchy guitar riffs mixed with African highlife beats, and lyrics that really hit home. He wasn’t one to chase after trends; he valued being real and genuine.

Some of his standout works include:

• Beautiful People
• Oh Ye Gates
• Bring Down the Glory I
• Bring Down the Glory II: God of War

• Bring Down the Glory III: Higher Than High
• Master of the Universe
• Bring Down the Glory IV: Deep Intimacy
• Bring Down Your Glory V: Throne of Grace.

Standing Firm: The £24 Million Deal

Back in 1995, when he was at the height of his career, Panam Percy Paul got an insane £24 million (around ₦7 billion at the time) offer for a three-year record deal. But there was a catch: they wanted him to stop mentioning “Jesus” in his songs. Instead, they suggested he use terms like “Righteous One” or “Greatest Lover.” Panam shot back with, “You can keep the money while I keep the name (Jesus).”

This moment really showed his integrity—he chose faith over fame and mission over cash. He later expressed how he felt gospel music nowadays had become more about the industry and marketing than about ministry.

Personal Life & Legacy

Panam has been married to Tina since 1981. She’s a pastor and oversees ministries, and together they’ve had four kids—Leah, Lisa, Harley, and Loraine—and they’ve also adopted three more.

On top of his music career, Panam started the Panam College of Music Ministry in Jos to help up-and-coming gospel musicians.

He also launched the Panam Music World record label and got involved in projects like the Panam Charity Foundation and the Mountains of Hope Foundation, all aimed at supporting Christian artists and those in need.

Awards & Recognition

His impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s scored some great awards like:

• FAME Gospel Music Artist of the Year (1992) & Best Vocalist
• BMI Music Award Artist of the Year (1995)
• Crystal Lifetime Achievement Award (2014).

Plus, he’s racked up a ton of professional and academic honors.