Bangalore: The young generation of singers lack basic knowledge of Hindustani classical music, laments doyen of Hindi film music Manna Dey.

"Music is not totally out. While some have awareness and knowledge in general, it is lacking among the young singers of today," Dey told reporters. "There is no knowledge about swar (notes), laya (tempo) and tal (rhythm) among young voices. For this it is necessary that they are guided and trained by good masters," the veteran said.

Dey said good film music is an amalgamation of lyrics and melody, adding "Obscene songs like Choli ke peeche kya hai make a mockery of music itself". Reflecting on Bollywood music scenario, the singing sensation of yesteryears said the fifties and sixties was the golden era of music while the early seventies had melodious music. The 1998-2008 period saw a lull, but some composers are now composing good music.

When asked which young voices he find good in the wake of changing trends in music industry, Dey showed all likes for Sonu Nigam, Shaan, Shreya Ghoshal and Sunidhi Chauhan. The 89-year-old classical singer said he still practices for two hours daily. "I also believe in good health and being physically fit," he added.

Recalling one of his most memorable moments in Bollywood, Manna Dey said the manner in which the song Aye Meri Zohra Jabeen, Tujhe Maloom nahin from the film Waqt was rehearsed was unique. "A musician from Afghanistan was called for rehearsal. I first observed him playing on the Rhubab (a stringed musical instrument) and then tried to emulate him," he said.

On changing trends in music, the legendary singer said, "I belong to the era when melody was king. Those were the days I cherish rather than what is being dished out now. Music today is for the moment, for the situation."

"It is a different world today, times are different and I have learnt to accept things," Dey said.

When asked whether his children have also followed in his footsteps, Dey said his two daughters have been trained in Hindustani classical music and sing very well. "However, they are not into pursuing it as a profession," he added.

The singer, who stays in Bangalore with one of his daughters, said earlier he used to love the city "but now feel suffocated. It is not the same Bangalore".

Dey will be performing in the US soon.