Jimmy Cozier grew up in Brooklyn, New York and was surrounded by music at a young age. His father was an accomplished saxophonist, while his Jamaican-born mother introduced him to reggae and dancehall music. In addition to his father, Cozier counts among his greatest musical influences Cassandra Wilson, Steven Coleman, Donny Hathaway and Luther Vandross.

Cozier embarked on his musical career as a background singer for Joe, Boys II Men, and Gladys Knight. He has written songs for Alicia Keyes,Janet Jackson (co-writing Jackson’s “Girlfriend” with Teddy Riley in 1999), and Mya. His management Upgrade Entertainment shared his demo with Wyclef Jean, who introduced it to Clive Davis and J Records. Davis was impressed with Cozier’s writing skill and sound and offered him a record deal.

In 2001, Cozier released his self-titled debut album. Cozier wrote ten of the twelve tracks, including the duet "Mr. Man," which is featured on her smash Grammy-winning album, Songs in A Minor (J Records). His first single was the tender ballad “She’s All I Got.”