Jim Gilstrap, Stevie Wonder and 'Good Times' Vocalist, Dies at 79
The versatile tenor, who also scored a solo hit with 'Swing Your Daddy,' passed away of natural causes in Los Angeles.
Jim Gilstrap, the tenor vocalist whose voice graced Stevie Wonder classics and the 'Good Times' television theme, has died at the age of 79. According to Billboard, he passed away of natural causes in Los Angeles on July 18.
His career spanned more than five decades, establishing him as one of the music industry's most versatile session singers. Gilstrap's opening lines are a defining feature of Wonder's Grammy-winning hit "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" from the Talking Book album. He also contributed to other seminal Wonder albums like Innervisions and Fulfillingness' First Finale during the 1970s.
What were his other notable credits?
Beyond his work with Wonder, Gilstrap lent his voice to a host of projects by a diverse array of stars. His credits include sessions for Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Bill Withers, Luther Vandross, Kenny Loggins, Dolly Parton, Stanley Clarke, and Boz Scaggs. In 1974, he was a co-lead vocalist on the iconic theme song for the CBS sitcom Good Times.
Did he have a solo career?
Yes. Both songs were featured on his debut studio album, Swing Your Daddy, released on Chelsea Records. He followed it with a second album, Love Talk, in 1976.
Born on Nov. 10, 1946 in Texas, Gilstrap is survived by his wife Gloria, children, and grandchildren. Memorial arrangements are pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Jim Gilstrap's cause of death?
Jim Gilstrap died of natural causes, according to the Billboard report.
What album features his vocals on 'You Are the Sunshine of My Life'?
Gilstrap sings the opening lines on Stevie Wonder's "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," which is featured on Wonder's album Talking Book.
Is 'Swing Your Daddy' available to stream?
Yes, "Swing Your Daddy" is listed among his most-played tracks on streaming platforms like Deezer, indicating it remains part of his accessible catalog.
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