Jim Gilstrap, singer on ‘Good Times’ Theme and Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” dies at 79

Jim Gilstrap, the acclaimed session vocalist whose voice helped shape some of the most recognizable sounds in American music, died July 18 at age 79. His family said he died of natural causes.

Gilstrap was born Nov. 10, 1946, in Daingerfield, Texas. He was raised in Los Angeles where he discovered music and later launched a career that spanned five decades.

A Career Spanning Five Decades

Gilstrap’s voice opened Stevie Wonder’s Grammy‑winning hit “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” and powered the gospel‑tinged theme song for the 1970s sitcom Good Times, a cultural touchstone for Black television.

Gilstrap built a five‑decade career as one of the industry’s most in‑demand session vocalists. He performed with Wonder’s Wonderlove during one of the singer’s most celebrated eras, appearing on landmark albums including Talking Book and Innervisions.

He also collaborated with a long list of major artists — including Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, Gladys Knight, Bill Withers, George Benson, Dolly Parton and Patti LaBelle — helping define the sound of soul, R&B and pop across generations.

Solo Success and Lasting Influence

As a solo artist, Gilstrap earned international recognition with his 1975 hit “Swing Your Daddy,” which reached No. 4 on the U.K. Singles Chart and No. 10 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart. He later released the album Love Talk in 1976.

His work extended into film and television, including contributions to the Grease soundtrack, Disney recordings and even vocal appearances on The Simpsons.

Remembered for Humility and Professionalism

Gilstrap’s family described him as a “legendary voice” whose humility matched his talent.

“No matter how far his incredible talent took him, he never forgot his roots. His family or the values that shaped him,” his nephew Geoffrey Gilstrap said.

Gilstrap leaves behind his wife, Gloria, his children, grandchildren, extended family and generations of fans touched by his music.