Could be. Never heard that story and I co-produced 'A Delicate Balance'.

Fred was a bartender/songwriter employed at the Barbarossa. He was, no doubt the best of all the unknown songwriters that have come through Chicago. He took up the fiddle, started calling square dances, got married and practically disappeared. I always had a profound respect for Fred and felt his original material was as good as anyone better known. He was/is a very laid-back guy and was never one to pursue the brass ring. He pretty much took things as they came.

Btw, I don't mean to imply your statement isn't true. I just never heard it and was really close w/Tom for a few years.