Veteran singer and session vocalist Jim Gilstrap, whose unmistakable voice helped shape some of the most memorable recordings of the 1970s, has died at the age of 79. Gilstrap was celebrated for his work with Stevie Wonder, his lead vocals on the iconic Good Times television theme song, and his successful solo career that included the hit single “Swing Your Daddy.” News of his death was confirmed by family representatives, prompting tributes from fellow musicians and longtime fans.

Born on November 10, 1946, in Daingerfield, Texas, Gilstrap began his music career after serving in the U.S. Navy Reserve and returning from the Vietnam War. He first found success as a backing vocalist before joining Stevie Wonder’s acclaimed Wonderlove ensemble. His contributions can be heard on Wonder’s landmark albums Talking Book and Innervisions, including the opening lines of the Grammy-winning classic “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” which introduced one of Wonder’s signature recordings.

Gilstrap became a familiar voice to television audiences as the male lead singer on the theme song for the hit sitcom Good Times. The upbeat anthem became one of the most recognizable television themes of the decade and remains closely associated with the groundbreaking series. Beyond television, Gilstrap also lent his vocals to Quincy Jones’ Body Heat, Boz Scaggs, Joe Cocker, Starship, Johnny Gill, Kelis, and dozens of other artists during a prolific session career that spanned more than five decades.

As a solo artist, Gilstrap enjoyed international success with “Swing Your Daddy,” which reached the Top 10 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and climbed to No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart in 1975. He followed the hit with the albums Swing Your Daddy and Love Talk, while continuing to establish himself as one of the industry’s most in-demand background vocalists.

Throughout his career, Gilstrap remained active in music, contributing to film soundtracks, television projects and recordings across genres. His credits included the TaleSpin theme song, performances on movie soundtracks and collaborations with artists from soul, pop, rock and jazz, earning him a reputation as one of the most versatile voices in the business.

Following news of his passing, fellow musicians, fans and industry colleagues remembered Gilstrap for his rich vocal talent and his lasting influence on popular music. His recordings with Stevie Wonder, the enduring Good Times theme, and his own chart successes remain a lasting part of his musical legacy.