For most people, Jimmy Stallings is not a household name. And yet his multiple contributions to American popular music with the Sir Douglas Quintet and as solo artist J.J. Light are iconic and even groundbreaking. Two months ago, while putting in a pacemaker, doctors discovered that Jimmy needed a triple bypass. While the surgery was a success, weeks later, after the implant of his new pacemaker, Jimmy had a stroke. He and Gloria, his wife of over 57 years, are currently living off of savings and social security in New Mexico but the expense of multiple surgeries and hospital stays are quickly threatening to overwhelm them with unimaginable debt.

 

 

As the bassist for the Sir Douglas Quintet, Jimmy set down a West Coast groove on the group’s smash hit “Mendocino” that put the band back in the charts in the fall of 1968. Shortly after, Jimmy was hospitalized for a nervous breakdown. Doug Sahm brought in Harvey Kagan to replace Jimmy on bass and Mercury records shot new promo photos for the forthcoming “Mendocino” LP on which Jimmy’s bass contributions were sadly omitted from the credits. A year later, Jimmy was rejuvenated and under the alias “J.J. Light”, Liberty Records released Jimmy’s single, “Heya.” The single and subsequent LP were produced by Bob Markley of the West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band. These songs are raw, honest, and beautiful. They focus on Jimmy’s childhood and his Native American roots, blending folk rock and psychedelia into a potent hybrid that resonated with young listeners. The record was a breakout hit in Germany and England and solo success seemed within reach, but a lifelong struggle with mental health once again sidelined Jimmy just as he was poised to capitalize on the momentum of “Heya”.

 

 

To this day, Heya is a landmark album, earning legendary status and a dedicated cult following. But Jimmy's career didn’t end there. He continued to appear live and on record with the Sir Douglas Quintet, recorded several solo singles and was a prominent and in-demand working musician throughout the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Jimmy was also an influence on other musicians, prompting friends and fellow Sunset Strip veterans Pat and Lolly Vegas to celebrate their own Native American heritage via the early 70’s rock group Redbone. In fact, Lolly and Jimmy were best friends. Jimmy’s daughter Angel remembers that it was not uncommon for 70’s luminaries to drop by their house like Rita Coolidge and Kris Kristofferson. People were drawn to Jimmy’s good natured spirit and genuine love for making music.

 

 

Sadly, the customary recording contracts of the 60’s and 70’s have left Jimmy with very little residual income from his recording career even though his music remains popular today. Jimmy and organist Augie Meyers are now the only two surviving members of the Sir Douglas Quintet and yet, many people are still unaware of Jimmy's legacy within the band. His classic album and its unreleased follow up are currently available, yet Jimmy makes almost no money from their digital sales.

 

 

While we can’t right the wrongs that the entertainment industry has wrought on many of its black- and brown-skinned pioneers overnight, we can start by coming to their aid when they are in need of healthcare and financial support. Jimmy needs our help right now. This is our chance to step up and show a musical legend that there is more than just a flicker of nostalgia for those who have brought us so much joy through their music. There is compassion, and there is also a willingness to act. We can help make a difference in the lives of Jimmy and Gloria by assisting with their mounting medical bills and letting Jimmy know he is loved, remembered and honored. Not just for his musical contributions but also because he is a loving father who helped raise three daughters, a beloved friend and coworker, and a dedicated husband. In short, Jimmy Stallings is an amazing individual. A musician’s musician, and a man for whom no one has an unkind word. We hope that you will be moved to donate now and help move us towards this modest goal that will mean a lot to Jimmy and Gloria. Thanks for reading, and thanks in advance for donating.

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