Jim Gilstrap facts for kids

James Gilstrap (born November 10, 1946 – died July 18, 2026) was an amazing American singer. He was also a talented session musician, which means he sang backup or played instruments for many other famous artists. You might know him best for his own hit song "Swing Your Daddy" from 1975. He also sang a big part of the theme song for the popular TV show Good Times. Jim Gilstrap's voice brought joy to many songs and shows throughout his long career.

Jim Gilstrap's Musical Journey

James Gilstrap was born in Daingerfield, Texas, on November 10, 1946. After serving in the U.S. Navy Reserve, he began his exciting journey in the music world. Early in his career, he worked with groups like the Doodletown Pipers.

Working with Stevie Wonder

In the early 1970s, Jim became a key part of Stevie Wonder's backup singing group, "Wonderlove." He lent his voice to famous albums like Talking Book and Innervisions. You can hear Jim singing the first two lines of Stevie Wonder's classic song, "You Are the Sunshine of My Life."

Solo Hits and Albums

In 1975, Jim Gilstrap signed a record deal. His song "Swing Your Daddy" became a huge hit! It reached number 4 in the UK Singles Chart and number 10 on the US Billboard Black Singles chart. It was even number one in the Netherlands!

He also released two albums of his own during the 1970s. The first, named Swing Your Daddy, included other singles like "I'm on Fire." His second album, Love Talk, came out in 1977.

Famous Theme Songs and Collaborations

Jim was a very busy session artist. This means he sang on many other artists' recordings. For example, he sang on Quincy Jones' "Soul Saga" in 1974. He also provided the main male vocals for the catchy theme song of the 1970s television program Good Times. Another famous song he sang was the theme for the 1990s cartoon series TaleSpin. Jim also sang backup for superstar Whitney Houston and on the soundtrack of the movie Grease. He even recorded a song called "A Lament" for the Japanese film Survive Style 5+.

Jim Gilstrap passed away on July 18, 2026, at the age of 79. His voice and musical talent left a lasting mark on the world of music.

Jim Gilstrap's Albums and Songs

Here are some of the albums and songs Jim Gilstrap released as a solo artist or with groups:

Solo Music

• Swing Your Daddy (1975)
• House Of Strangers (1975)
• I'm On Fire (1976)
• Love Talk (1976)

Group Projects

• With Side Effect: Effective (1973)
• With Tour De 4force 1 (including members of The Supremes): Quiet Moon (2009)
• With Joyce Vincent, Pam Vincent and the Altair All-Star Choir: La La Peace Song (2018)

Working with Other Artists

Jim Gilstrap was a highly sought-after singer who worked with many of the biggest names in music. He was a "session musician," meaning he helped record songs for other artists without being the main performer. His voice can be heard on albums by legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, and Celine Dion. He contributed to many hit songs and movie soundtracks, making his voice a familiar sound to millions, even if they didn't always know it was him!

See also

• List of performers on Top of the Pops