Malandragem is a socially constructed ethos. This historical concept is indeed a product from slavery, which continues to influence the imaginary and identity of the Brazilian people today. It refers to the creative capability and social versatility of individuals endeavouring to transform very difficult life circumstances, in generally low socio-economic contexts of Brazilian society. This controversial concept is both process and outcome to creative doer, which is conceived only through social assurance. Malandragem as a survival mechanism prompts creativity to individuals and operates as strategy to power and de-power.
The paper explores malandragem as a cross-cultural concept, and in so doing, it connects it with the Malian harp Kamalengoni. It examines both malandragem and kamalengoni as tradition of inventions, as creative responses to political oppression, and strategy for material survival. The paper contends that kamalengoni, akin to Brazilian malandragem, is used by musicians to negotiate their circumstances of uncertainty and to maintenance one’s own social elevation.