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If you’re a fan of gospel music, then you’ve undoubtedly heard the name Panam Percy Paul. But do you truly know the man behind the music? This is the incredible story of a musician who defied his family, overcame rejection, and became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel artists.
A Star is Born
Born as Bakulipanam Percy Paul Mokungah, this gospel icon hails from Mbula in Demsa L.G.A, Adamawa State, though he resides in Jos, Plateau State. He was born into a disciplined military household; his father, Major Paul Harley, was a Nigerian Army officer, while his mother, Paulina Paul Mokungah, was a composer in the Lutheran Church. It’s no surprise that music ran in his veins.
The Family Struggle
Many people don’t realize that Panam’s path to gospel music wasn’t always smooth. At just 19 years old, his father disowned him for choosing gospel music over a military career. His name was even removed from his father’s will. Despite this painful rejection, Panam remained resolute in his calling, forging ahead with his music against all odds.
A Career Spanning Over Four Decades
For 43 years, Panam Percy Paul has remained a beacon of inspiration in the gospel music scene. His first recorded album was released in 1976, and he has since released an astounding 14 albums, solidifying his status as one of the most prolific gospel musicians in Nigeria’s history.
The ‘Bring Down The Glory’ Phenomenon
Among his numerous hits, “Bring Down The Glory 1” and “Bring Down The Glory 2” remain fan favorites. The journey to producing these albums was intense Panam once rehearsed for 27 straight hours and spent three weeks at a time with minimal sleep. In an unparalleled feat of spiritual discipline, he went one and a half years (from May 1984 to December 12, 1986) without food, surviving only on water and Lucozade Boost in preparation for “Bring Down The Glory 1.”
A Man of Many Achievements
Panam Percy Paul’s contributions to gospel music have not gone unnoticed. He has received over 20 prestigious awards, including:
The 1992 FAME Gospel Music Award for Best Vocalist of the Year
The 1995 BMI Music Award for Artist of the Year
The 2014 Crystal Lifetime Achievement Award
Defying the Odds to Stand on a Legendary Stage
In a tale of destiny fulfilled, on September 6, 1993, Panam performed at the legendary Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York a stage where, in 1967, he had watched James Brown perform on television and vowed that he would one day stand on that very stage.
More Than Just a Musician
Beyond his music, Panam is a highly educated man, holding three doctorate degrees in sound, music, and philosophy. His intellectual prowess complements his musical genius, making him a well rounded and influential figure in the gospel world.
A Legacy of Purity in Music
In an industry where collaborations between gospel and secular artists are common, Panam has remained firm in his faith, refusing to sing collabos with secular musicians. His dedication to the purity of gospel music has earned him deep respect from fans and fellow artists alike.
The Legacy Lives On
Panam Percy Paul’s legacy is more than just his music it is a testament to resilience, faith, and divine calling. Despite facing rejection from his family, enduring intense sacrifices, and defying all odds, he has risen to become a gospel music legend whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
In a world where many compromise their values for fame, Panam Percy Paul stands as a shining example of what it means to stay true to one’s calling. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and unwavering faith a true inspiration to all who dream of making an impact through their craft.
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