Jim Gilstrap, Beloved Session Tenor, Dies at 79

James “Jim” Gilstrap, the tenor whose voice opened Stevie Wonder’s Grammy-winning “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” and co-led the 1974 television series *Good Times* theme, died of natural causes in Los Angeles on July 18, 2024. He was 79. The former member of Wonder’s backing group Wonderlove began his recording career in the early 1970s after military service and work with regional groups.

Billboard

Gilstrap’s five-decade career encompassed solo R&B hits—“Swing Your Daddy” (U.S. #10, U.K. #4) and “I’m on Fire” (U.S. #20) in 1975—and extensive session work. He contributed to Stevie Wonder’s *Talking Book*, *Innervinations* and *Fulfillingness’ First Finale* albums. Later collaborations included recordings with Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Bill Withers, Luther Vandross, Kenny Loggins, Dolly Parton, Stanley Clarke and Boz Scaggs.

Billboard

A statement emailed to Billboard by Gilstrap’s nephew and family spokesperson Geoffrey “Geoff Gil” Gilstrap emphasized the singer’s humility and family ties. The family noted that Gilstrap, the last surviving child of ten siblings, is survived by his wife Gloria, children and grandchildren, with memorial arrangements pending.

Billboard

• “To the world, Jim Gilstrap was a legendary voice.” — Geoffrey “Geoff Gil” Gilstrap

Billboard

• “To the world, Jim Gilstrap was a legendary voice. To us, he was simply Uncle James — a beloved husband, uncle, mentor and friend,” — Geoffrey “Geoff Gil” Gilstrap

Billboard

• “Beyond the music, we’ll remember Jim’s kindness, humility, humor, generosity and, of course, his homemade sweet potato pies that brought our family together.” — Geoffrey “Geoff Gil” Gilstrap

Billboard

• “As we celebrate Uncle Jim’s remarkable life, we can’t help but thank God for those ‘Good Times’ …” — Geoffrey “Geoff Gil” Gilstrap

Billboard

Gilstrap’s death marks the loss of a versatile vocalist whose contributions shaped landmark recordings across soul, pop and television. His work remains a touchstone for artists and listeners, illustrating the enduring impact of session musicians behind some of the 20th century’s most celebrated songs.

Billboard