Jim Gilstrap, an R&B singer and session musician known for work on major recordings, dies at 79, according to statements from his family. Gilstrap’s voice is heard on the theme song for the 1970s sitcom “Good Times.” He is also credited with involvement in Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” a track highlighted by multiple outlets among his many collaborations.
Beyond those recognizable credits, sources describe him as a versatile vocalist whose session work spans a wide range of artists and genres. Rolling Stone and other coverage note he provided backup vocals for performers including Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. Billboard and other outlets similarly list major figures such as Aretha Franklin and Dolly Parton among his credits.
Gilstrap also had solo success: Billboard and Hollywood Reporter cite his international hit “Swing Your Daddy,” with Hollywood Reporter noting a solo hit in 1975. According to Deadline, he dies from natural causes, with his nephew Gil Gilstrap saying the death occurred on Saturday, July 18.
