The subject of today’s episode is Manuel Pereira, better known as Besouro Manganga. Besouro is one of if not the most famous figure in Capoeira history, and for many good reasons. Besouro was so legendary in his fighting prowess, that it was said both that he could shapeshift to escape capture and that he was mystically immune to all physical harm. He lived in a time when Capoeira was heavily persecuted, and fought valiantly against that suppressive system. I’ve heard more capoeira songs referencing Besouro than any other Capoeira figure, and if you’ve been in Capoeira for any significant amount of time, you for sure have at least heard his name. So today, lets dig in to the story of this legend, the music that relates to him, and what we can learn about the development of Capoeira in Bahia in this time period.
Songs Included in Today's Episode:
Besouro Besourinho - CM Rafael
Adeus Besouro - Mestre Barrão
Besouro Valente - Mestre Suassuna
Besouro Cordão do Ouro - Mestre Coreba
As always, please email me any comments, questions, stories, or suggestions to: desconfiado.mandinga@gmail.com