Meaning: The quote you've provided is by Phil Lesh, a musician best known as the bassist for the Grateful Dead. This quote reflects on the band's experience and challenges during the 1990s. Let's break down the quote to understand its context and implications.

In the first part of the quote, Lesh states, "Of course, we didn't survive to play all the way through the '90s." This statement refers to the fact that the Grateful Dead, as a band, did not continue performing throughout the entire decade of the 1990s. This is an important piece of context as it sets the stage for the subsequent reflections on the band's awareness of their situation and their efforts to adapt to the changing times.

Lesh goes on to say, "so I can say that - as I said, everybody in the band was aware of this, and we trying to figure out ways to make it different." Here, Lesh acknowledges that the band members were conscious of the challenges they faced as the '90s approached. The phrase "we [were] trying to figure out ways to make it different" suggests that the band was actively seeking solutions to navigate the changing music landscape and potentially extend their relevance into the new decade.

This quote provides insight into the internal discussions and concerns within the Grateful Dead as they grappled with the evolving music industry and cultural shifts. It highlights the band's awareness of the need to adapt and innovate in order to remain impactful and successful.

The 1990s marked a period of significant change in the music industry, with the rise of alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic music, among other genres. Additionally, technological advancements, such as the widespread adoption of the internet and digital music formats, transformed the way music was created, distributed, and consumed. These broader shifts likely influenced the Grateful Dead's recognition of the need to reassess their approach and potentially reinvent their sound and strategies.

It's worth noting that the Grateful Dead's music had its roots in the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s, and the band had established a dedicated fan base known as "Deadheads." However, as musical tastes and cultural dynamics changed, the band faced the challenge of retaining their existing fan base while also appealing to new audiences and staying relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.

In response to these challenges, the Grateful Dead pursued various initiatives, including touring extensively and embracing technological innovations. The band's commitment to live performances and improvisational jams remained a central part of their identity, and they continued to attract fans through their unique concert experiences.

Despite their efforts, the Grateful Dead encountered difficulties during the 1990s, including the passing of key band members and internal conflicts. These challenges, combined with external pressures, contributed to the band's decision to disband in 1995 following the death of Jerry Garcia.

In the years since the Grateful Dead's disbandment, the band's legacy has endured, and their influence on music and culture remains profound. The quote by Phil Lesh offers a glimpse into the band's mindset as they confronted the uncertainties of the 1990s, illustrating their awareness of the need to adapt and their ongoing pursuit of creative solutions.

In conclusion, Phil Lesh's quote encapsulates the Grateful Dead's recognition of the changing landscape of the 1990s music industry and their efforts to navigate these shifts. It provides a window into the band's internal dialogue and their determination to address the challenges they faced. Despite the band's ultimate dissolution, their legacy and impact continue to resonate, making their story a compelling chapter in the history of popular music.