James “Jim” Gilstrap, the tenor known for his opening lines on Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” and the Good Times theme song, died of natural causes on July 18 in Los Angeles. He was 79.
Gilstrap built a career spanning more than five decades as a session vocalist. He contributed to Stevie Wonder albums including Talking Book, Innervisions and Fulfillingness’ First Finale. He also recorded solo hits such as “Swing Your Daddy” and “I’m on Fire” in 1975.
Born in Texas on Nov. 10, 1946, Gilstrap served in the military before joining Wonder’s backing group Wonderlove. His voice appeared on recordings by Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and others.
A family statement described him as a beloved husband, uncle and mentor. Gilstrap is survived by his wife Gloria, children and grandchildren. Memorial arrangements are pending.
