Cozz

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

In 2013, Cozz began to take rap seriously and recorded a demo tape. A few months later, he released the music video for 'Dreams.' Shortly after, he started to get notice and having meetings with many different labels. Cozz's manager brought the music video to J. Cole and he was later signed to Dreamville Records. On October 3, 2014, Cozz released his debut album *Cozz & Effect*. The project was initially intended as a free mixtape upon recording, but according to Cozz, when it was finished, it sounded better than they had hoped and they therefore agreed it can be sold. Dreamville Records released it on digital format firstly, followed by physical CD a short while afterwards. In 2015, Cozz was a part of J. Cole's '2014 Forest Hills Drive Tour' along with other acts Bas, Omen, Pusha T, Jhene Aiko, Jeremih, YG, and Big Sean. On January 4, 2016, Cozz released his second project, and first mixtape, *Nothin' Personal*. The mixtape was entirely produced by Meez. Features include fellow west coast rapper Boogie, Bas, and Free Ackrite. The mixtape was supported with four singles: 'Tabs,' 'Growth,' 'My Side,' and 'Who Said.' On February 13, 2018, he released his second album *Effected* which includes features from J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. Singles and music videos for the album includes 'Questions', 'Demons N Distractions', and 'Bout It'. On April 4, 2018, Cozz announced The Effected Tour in North American in 16 cities, to further promote the album. He was also featured on Los Angeles rapper JAG's album with Reason on the track 'Black Boy Rise'. On November 7, Cozz worked with DJ Megan Ryte on a 5-track mixtape called *Aftermath Of My Dreams*. On October 22, 2021, Cozz released the first single from the EP of the same name titled 'Fortunate', produced by T-Minus, J. Cole, and Ced Breeze. On November 17, he released the second single 'Addicted', along with a music video. On December 2, Cozz released the EP *Fortunate*, which features a guest appearance from YG.

In Their Own Story

The studio lights dim as Cozz leans over the mic, a worn notebook in hand. He spits a verse about late nights and broken promises, the beat thumping like a heartbeat. J. Cole nods from the booth, knowing this track will hit hard. Outside, the LA skyline glows, but inside, it's just two artists chasing a dream, one bar at a time.

Reader's Guide

Cozz is a rapper and key figure in the Dreamville Records roster, known for his sharp lyricism and streetwise storytelling. His role within the collective is that of a gritty counterpoint to more melodic members, bringing raw authenticity to every project. Cozz's arc has seen him evolve from an underground talent to a respected voice on major releases like 'Revenge of the Dreamers III', where his verses often steal the spotlight. His skills include a commanding flow, vivid narrative ability, and a knack for crafting hooks that resonate. Cozz's defining moments include his standout appearances on Dreamville compilations and his solo album 'Effected', which showcased his growth as an artist. He represents the struggle and triumph of the underdog, a theme central to Dreamville's identity. Fans admire Cozz for his consistency and refusal to compromise his vision. His collaborations with J. Cole highlight a mentor-mentee dynamic that has produced some of the most memorable tracks in the label's catalog. Cozz's journey is one of perseverance, making him a beloved figure in the Dreamville universe.

Did You Know?

• Cozz's debut album *Cozz & Effect* was initially intended as a free mixtape, but it sounded so good that Dreamville Records decided to sell it.
• In 2015, Cozz performed on J. Cole's '2014 Forest Hills Drive Tour' alongside Bas, Omen, Pusha T, Jhene Aiko, Jeremih, YG, and Big Sean.
• Cozz's 2016 mixtape *Nothin' Personal* was entirely produced by Meez.
• His second studio album *Effected* features both J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar.
• Cozz's 2021 EP *Fortunate* includes a guest appearance from YG.