Home / Arts and Entertainment / Good Times Singer Jim Gilstrap Dies at 79
Good Times Singer Jim Gilstrap Dies at 79
20 Jul
Summary
- Singer Jim Gilstrap, known for 'Good Times' theme, has died at 79.
- He provided vocals for Stevie Wonder's hit 'You Are the Sunshine of My Life'.
- Gilstrap also had a solo hit with 'Swing Your Daddy' in the UK.
James "Jim" Gilstrap, a renowned singer whose voice graced the iconic "Good Times" theme song and Stevie Wonder's "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," has died at the age of 79. His passing was confirmed by his nephew, Geoffrey "Geoff Gil" Gilstrap, who stated that Gilstrap died on Saturday from natural causes.
Gilstrap's memorable rendition of the "Good Times" theme, co-written by Dave Grusin and Alan and Marilyn Bergman, was performed with Blinky Williams. He was an integral part of Stevie Wonder's Wonderlove ensemble, lending his vocal talents to several of Wonder's recordings.
His distinctive voice is featured on Wonder's 1972 album "Talking Book," particularly on "You Are the Sunshine of My Life." Gilstrap also contributed to Wonder's "Wonderlove" and "Innervisions" albums. In 1975, Gilstrap launched a solo career, releasing the hit single "Swing Your Daddy," which charted successfully in the UK and US.
Throughout his prolific career, Gilstrap collaborated with a vast array of music legends, including Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Dolly Parton. His nephew described him as one of the most respected session vocalists of his generation, whose powerful voice defined popular music.
