Greentea Peng, the genre-blending singer-songwriter from South London, has built a reputation for crafting soulful, introspective music infused with reggae, neo-soul, jazz, and psychedelia. With her distinctive, ethereal voice and a sound that feels both timeless and futuristic, she has carved a unique space within the UK music scene. “Hu Man”, one of her standout tracks, encapsulates her artistic vision—fusing hypnotic rhythms, thought-provoking lyrics, and a deeply spiritual energy.
Released in 2020, “Hu Man” is more than just a song; it’s an existential meditation on identity, unity, and the human experience. It embodies Greentea Peng’s signature fusion of conscious lyricism and hypnotic grooves, offering a message of peace, self-awareness, and connection in a time when the world feels increasingly fragmented. The track seamlessly blends multiple influences, making it a sonic journey as much as a philosophical one.
Musical Composition: A Mesmerizing Soundscape
At its core, “Hu Man” is a testament to Greentea Peng’s ability to create music that feels organic and transcendental. The track’s instrumentation is lush and immersive, with warm, rolling basslines, laid-back percussion, and shimmering guitar chords that create a dreamy, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The production, handled by frequent collaborator Earbuds, is smooth and understated, allowing Greentea Peng’s vocals to take center stage. There’s an undeniable dub influence in the track’s bass-heavy mix, a nod to her love of reggae and roots music. The rhythm section moves with a gentle but persistent groove, giving the track a meditative quality that invites listeners to sink into its depths.
Sonically, “Hu Man” draws from multiple genres—neo-soul, trip-hop, and jazz all weave seamlessly into the fabric of the song. The way the instrumentation unfolds feels effortless, with each element carefully placed to enhance the song’s fluidity. The guitar licks, subtle keys, and echoing vocal effects contribute to the track’s psychedelic undertones, making it feel like a warm, hazy daydream.
Lyricism: A Call for Consciousness and Unity
Lyrically, “Hu Man” is a deeply introspective piece, filled with philosophical musings and existential wonder. Greentea Peng’s songwriting often leans toward the spiritual and the observational, and this track is no exception. She questions the constructs of identity and societal division, urging people to reconnect with their true nature and each other.
The opening lines set the tone for the song’s reflective journey:
“What does it mean to be Hu Man?
What does it mean to be free?”
These questions are simple yet profound, inviting listeners to ponder their own existence. Greentea Peng explores themes of duality—the balance between light and dark, the struggle between ego and spirit, and the tension between materialism and higher consciousness. Her words flow like poetry, carrying a sense of ease and wisdom that resonates beyond the music itself.
As the song progresses, she emphasizes unity and love over division and fear. Her message is one of collective healing, encouraging people to step outside of societal labels and return to a more natural, harmonious way of being. Lines like:
“One love, one light, one truth, one side
Do you see yourself in another man’s eyes?”
underscore the interconnectedness of all people, a theme that echoes throughout much of her work. In a world often dominated by division—whether political, racial, or ideological—“Hu Man” serves as a gentle but powerful reminder of our shared humanity.
Greentea Peng’s Vocal Delivery: Hypnotic and Soulful
Greentea Peng’s voice is one of the most striking aspects of “Hu Man”. It’s rich, warm, and deeply expressive, carrying both vulnerability and strength. Her delivery is effortless, almost conversational, yet imbued with a hypnotic quality that draws listeners in.
Her unique vocal style sits somewhere between singing and spoken word, blending elements of jazz, reggae toasting, and classic soul. There’s a hushed, intimate quality to her performance, making it feel as though she’s speaking directly to the listener. The slight rasp in her voice adds a layer of rawness and authenticity, reinforcing the song’s organic, free-flowing energy.
Throughout “Hu Man”, her voice moves fluidly with the instrumentation, creating a sense of weightlessness. She never forces a note or overpowers the track; instead, she allows the music to breathe, guiding the listener through the experience with a laid-back confidence. This vocal approach enhances the song’s meditative feel, making it a piece that encourages deep reflection as much as movement.
The Visual and Aesthetic Elements of “Hu Man”
The music video for “Hu Man” further reinforces its spiritual and psychedelic themes. Set against a backdrop of nature, it features Greentea Peng in flowing garments, moving with effortless grace. The visuals are bathed in warm, golden hues, evoking a sense of peace and natural beauty.
There’s a deliberate simplicity to the video—no flashy effects, no elaborate narratives—just Greentea Peng existing in her natural state. This minimalist approach complements the song’s message, allowing the focus to remain on the music and the emotions it evokes. The imagery of sunlit landscapes, flowing water, and open spaces reinforces the song’s themes of freedom and self-discovery.
Aesthetically, Greentea Peng’s style is an extension of her music. With her distinctive tattoos, layered jewelry, and effortlessly cool demeanor, she embodies a modern-day bohemian spirit. Everything about her—from her visual identity to her sonic choices—feels intentional, creating a cohesive artistic universe that is uniquely hers.
Cultural and Philosophical Influence
Greentea Peng’s music is deeply rooted in spirituality, self-awareness, and alternative perspectives on life. “Hu Man” is a perfect example of how she weaves these elements into her artistry. Her worldview is influenced by Eastern philosophy, holistic healing, and consciousness-expanding practices—all of which come through in her lyrics and overall sonic approach.
Her stage name itself—Greentea Peng—is a reflection of her lifestyle and philosophy. “Peng” is a slang term for something of high quality or attractiveness in British street culture, while “Greentea” represents health, nature, and mindfulness. This fusion of urban slang with holistic symbolism perfectly encapsulates her artistic identity.
In “Hu Man”, these influences manifest through her meditative vocal delivery and introspective lyrics. The track feels like a modern mantra, encouraging listeners to step outside of societal expectations and reconnect with their authentic selves. In a fast-paced, often chaotic world, her music serves as a form of sonic healing—a way to slow down, reflect, and find peace within.
Conclusion: A Timeless Message Wrapped in Soulful Sound
“Hu Man” is more than just a song—it’s an experience, a meditation, and a call to consciousness. Greentea Peng’s ability to merge deep, philosophical musings with effortlessly cool, groove-driven production makes this track a standout in her discography. It captures her essence as an artist—unapologetically free-spirited, deeply introspective, and wholly unique.
The track’s fusion of dub, neo-soul, jazz, and psychedelia creates a sonic landscape that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Its hypnotic groove, combined with Greentea Peng’s mesmerizing vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, makes it a song that lingers in the mind long after it ends.
At a time when music often feels disposable, “Hu Man” stands as a reminder of the power of artistry with depth and intention. Greentea Peng is not just making music—she’s creating experiences, fostering connection, and offering listeners a pathway to greater self-awareness. In “Hu Man”, she invites us to reflect on what it truly means to be human—a message that will remain relevant for generations to come.