I kind of doubt that, as he was one of the top west coast studio musicians before his solo career. He was a member of "The Wrecking Crew," and played on movie & TV soundtracks, and albums from Frank Sinatra to The Beach Boys.
Mark
I have seen it mentioned many places that he had an ear for music, but couldn’t read music. Many have said he was just that darned good. He could play nearly any instrument he touched.