Meaning: The quote you provided is from Gary Cherone, a musician known for his work as the lead vocalist for the rock bands Extreme and Van Halen. In this quote, Cherone reflects on his experiences and the musical landscape of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Let's break down the quote and explore its significance in the context of the era.

Cherone begins by stating, "We didn't gel with Poison and the Bon Jovi." This remark indicates that he and his band, Extreme, did not feel a strong connection or sense of camaraderie with the bands Poison and Bon Jovi. Poison and Bon Jovi were prominent figures in the "hair metal" or "glam metal" subgenre, known for their flashy, image-conscious approach to rock music, characterized by anthemic choruses, power ballads, and a focus on visual aesthetics. Extreme's musical style differed from the glam metal sound, as they incorporated elements of funk, pop, and hard rock into their music, setting them apart from the glam metal scene.

Cherone goes on to acknowledge Bon Jovi as "the best of the pop metal bands," recognizing their musical prowess and commercial success within the pop-influenced metal genre. This acknowledgment demonstrates a level of respect for Bon Jovi's achievements, even though Extreme did not necessarily align with the same musical style and image.

He then states, "We were never as hip as the Chili Peppers." This comparison highlights the contrast between Extreme and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, a band known for blending funk, rock, and punk influences into their music. The Chili Peppers were associated with the alternative rock and funk rock movements, and their edgier, more offbeat approach to music stood in contrast to the mainstream appeal of the glam metal bands. Cherone's acknowledgment of the Chili Peppers' "hipness" suggests an awareness of the evolving musical landscape and a recognition of the Chili Peppers' cultural relevance at the time.

Finally, Cherone concludes by positioning Extreme as being "in the middle." This statement encapsulates the band's position in the musical spectrum of the era. While Extreme did not fully align with the glam metal scene, they also did not embody the alternative or underground ethos of bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Instead, they carved out their own musical identity, drawing from a diverse range of influences and appealing to a broad audience that appreciated their unique fusion of rock, funk, and pop elements.

In essence, Cherone's quote provides insight into the dynamics of the rock music scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It reflects the diversity of musical styles and the complexity of navigating the industry during a period marked by the coexistence of glam metal, alternative rock, and other subgenres. Extreme's positioning "in the middle" speaks to their ability to transcend rigid genre boundaries and appeal to a diverse fan base while maintaining a distinct musical identity.

Overall, Cherone's reflections offer a glimpse into the challenges, nuances, and artistic choices that shaped the trajectory of Extreme as they navigated the ever-evolving landscape of rock music. His words serve as a reminder of the rich diversity of musical expression during that era and the enduring impact of bands that dared to carve out their own paths amidst shifting trends and industry expectations.