Hits from Joe Henry

• His role in "Songs for Slim": Henry was involved from the get-go in the local compilation to benefit former Replacements guitarist Slim Dunlap, who suffered a stroke last year. He produced five tracks and sang on one. "I'm glad it's offering financial help to Slim, but I'm also happy it's inviting people to hear his songwriting in a new way — or for the first time."

• Most challenging artist to produce: "Solomon Burke had no interest or willingness to learn any song beforehand," he said. "Wrangling his full engagement and keeping the band from overplaying, that was demanding."

• Easiest artist to produce: "On every take, even if the band is just hearing the song, Loudon Wainwright plays and sings as if it's the last time he's ever going to have the opportunity to sing this song. He's never, ever not completely engaged."

JON BREAM