"Stepping Stone" is the fourth single by British singer Duffy from her debut studio album, Rockferry.

Although it followed the massive success of previous singles "Mercy" and "Warwick Avenue", it did not perform well in worldwide music charts.

The music is dramatic, pulsating yet sparse, compelling the listener to focus on Duffy's remarkable vocals and evocative lyrics."

[8] Following the positive trend of reviews by critics, The Hollywood Reporter said that the song "shows what all the fuss is about", referring to Duffy's success worldwide.

It went on to say that Duffy "sheds so many previous vocal comparisons" with the song, also noting that the single is "clearly aimed at adults who may have shied away from the party vibe of 'Mercy'".

The review went on to say that "[Duffy (with the song)] plays into the hands of critics who brand her music "coffee table soul".

Finally, the reviewer said that "it [Stepping Stone] lacks the heart-melting chorus which made the former [Warwick Avenue] a triumph".

[7] A reviewer for the BBC said that "Stepping Stone" was "noticeably hanging limply" when compared to the full track listing of Rockferry.

[22] The music video for "Stepping Stone" depicts a mature, sophisticated style as Duffy is involved with one mysterious man.

The music video was directed by Sophie Muller,[24] and was first shown on video-sharing website, YouTube on 4 August 2008.

The following people contributed to the recording and production of "Stepping Stone":[1] The song was covered by the operatic soprano Renée Fleming on her 2010 album, Dark Hope.