Dr. Panam Paul, a well-known gospel minister, recently shared an experience where he was offered £24 million (approximately ₦7 billion in 1995) to alter his music by reducing references to Jesus.
At the height of his career, industry executives approached him with a lucrative deal, provided he minimized direct mentions of Jesus in his songs. He recalled that one executive even suggested using alternative terms like the Greatest Lover or the Righteous One instead of explicitly naming Jesus.
However, Dr. Paul firmly declined the offer, stating, “You can keep your money, I’ll keep the name.”
Expressing concern over the commercialization of gospel music, he noted how the ministry has increasingly become an industry where financial interests shape artistic and spiritual choices. He also pointed out that marketers in Alaba once encouraged gospel artists to incorporate speaking in tongues into their songs—not for spiritual edification but because it boosted sales.
Dr. Paul warned that external influences are dictating what gospel ministers sing and how they sing, urging a return to authentic gospel music that prioritizes faith over profit.
His story stands as a reminder for artists to stay committed to their faith despite industry pressures.