Jim Gilstrap, Voice Behind the ‘Good Times’ Theme and Stevie Wonder’s ‘You Are the Sunshine of My Life,’ Dies at 79

James “Jim” Gilstrap, a name that might not ring a bell for casual listeners but whose voice is woven into the fabric of 1970s pop and R&B, died on Saturday at the age of 79. Family members said he succumbed to natural causes, bringing an end to a career that quietly shaped the sound of a generation.

Most people will instantly recognize the uplifting chorus of the Good Times sitcom theme – “Keepin’ your head above water, makin’ a wave when you can” – a gospel‑flavored gem co‑sung with Blinky Williams. Written by Dave Grusin with lyrics from Alan and Marilyn Bergman, the song became a cultural touchstone from 1974 to 1979, and Jim’s bright tenor was front‑and‑center.

But perhaps his most widely heard contribution came from a different arena: Stevie Wonder’s 1972 masterpiece, “You Are the Sunshine of My Life.” Gilstrap sang the opening two lines – “You are the sunshine of my life / That’s why I’ll always be around” – before Lani Groves took over and Wonder’s own voice entered. The track earned Wonder a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, and Gilstrap’s smooth harmonies helped cement its timeless appeal.

Beyond those two signature moments, Jim was a staple in the studio rooms of some of music’s most revered architects. He lent his voice to Wonder’s albums Wonderlove and Innervisions, and his vocal fingerprints appear on recordings by Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, The Jacksons, Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, James Ingram, George Benson, Bill Withers, Gladys Knight, Luther Vandross, Patti LaBelle, Kenny Loggins, Dolly Parton, Teddy Pendergrass, Stanley Clarke, Boz Scaggs, and many others.

In 1975, Gilstrap stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist with Chelsea Records, releasing the playful single “Swing Your Daddy.” The track climbed to No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart, cracked the Top 10 on Billboard’s Black Singles chart in the U.S., and even made a modest splash in Australia at No. 64. The following year he followed up with the album Love Talk, showcasing his ability to blend soulful crooning with a light‑hearted pop sensibility.

Friends and family remember him as “one of the most respected session vocalists of his generation,” a man whose powerful, soulful voice elevated countless recordings without ever seeking the limelight. His nephew, Geoffrey “Geoff” Gilstrap, who acted as family spokesperson, summed it up: “Jim’s talent was a gift to every artist he worked with, and his generosity in the studio was legendary.”

Born on November 10, 1946, Jim grew up as the youngest of ten siblings. He was survived by his wife, Gloria, and their children, who now carry forward the quiet legacy of a man whose voice—though often behind the scenes—still echoes in every chorus he helped craft.

As the music world pauses to reflect, Gilstrap’s contributions remind us that not every star shines in the spotlight, but many shine brighter because of the support they provide from the background. His melodies will keep swimming, long after the final note fades.