[2] In an interview with Questlove Supreme, songwriter Allee Willis explained the story behind the song saying : "The first thing Maurice ever said to me was "What do you know about Eastern philosophies ?"

"[5] In Maurice White's autobiography, he explained : "One thing that I wanted Allee (Willis) and all the people who collaborated with me to understand is that non-conformity and curiosity always lead to a heightened creativity.

"[7] Phyl Garland of Stereo Review wrote "In the Stone is less imaginative than many of Earth, Wind & Fire's previous efforts, but performing gusto compensates for the slim substance.

"[10] Cash Box said it was "an irresistable dancing cut" that "moves to a swinging mixture of catchy percussives and intricately woven harmonies.

"[11] James Johnson of the Evening Standard proclaimed "the slightly curious cosmic overtones of their lyrics remain in evidence on..In the Stone".