Jim Gilstrap, one of the most accomplished session vocalists of his generation, passed away Saturday, July 18, from natural causes. He was 79.
Best known to millions as the co-lead vocalist behind the iconic theme song for the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom Good Times and for singing the opening lines of Stevie Wonder’s Grammy Award-winning classic “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” Gilstrap spent more than five decades as an essential voice in American popular music, even if his name remained largely unknown to the general public.
Born in Daingerfield, Texas on November 10, 1946, Gilstrap began his music career after serving in the Vietnam War, performing early on with the Doodletown Pipers and The Cultures. In the early 1970s he joined Stevie Wonder’s Wonderlove, contributing to some of the most celebrated albums of Wonder’s legendary career, including Talking Book, which won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, and Innervisions. It was on Talking Book that Gilstrap, alongside Lani Groves, sang the unforgettable opening lines of “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” one of the most beloved songs in pop history.
His session work extended across television, film and music. He could be heard weekly on the Good Times theme alongside Blinky Williams, and also sang the theme for the 1990s animated series TaleSpin. His film credits include Dave Grusin’s soul and jazz-funk track “I’ve Got You Where I Want You” from the Three Days of the Condor soundtrack.
In 1975 Gilstrap signed with Chelsea Records and released “Swing Your Daddy,” which reached number four on the UK Singles Chart and number ten on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, earning him international recognition as a solo artist. His 1976 album Love Talk further showcased his range and artistry as a lead performer.
Over his career he collaborated with Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Luther Vandross, Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, Bill Withers, James Ingram, George Benson, Teddy Pendergrass, Kenny Loggins, Dolly Parton and Kanye West, among many others.
Gilstrap is survived by his wife Gloria Gilstrap, his children, grandchildren and extended family. He was the last surviving member of a family of ten siblings.
“His voice may no longer fill the studio,” his family said in a statement, “but his music will continue to inspire generations.”