Released on their Midnight Ride album in May 1966, “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone” was originally written by the famous Brill Building duo Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart.
Energetic, riff-driven, and rife with attitude, the Raiders’ version delivered a raw rebuke to being used—and set an early template for the garage‑punk that would follow .
I’m Not Your Stepping Stone
Garage-Rock Roots:
The song’s simple chord progression (E–G–A–C) and fast delivery cemented its place as a standout in the proto‑punk and garage‑rock canon .
From Album to Anthem:
Featured on Midnight Ride—the same album that produced #5 hit “Kicks”—the track showcased the band’s escalating musical edge
Covers Galore:
Covered by The Monkees (who had a US Top 20 hit), punk icons Sex Pistols, Minor Threat, and even Berkeley’s Fang—its defiant message has transcended genres
Media Appearances:
The Raiders’ music, including this song, saw renewed attention with Quentin Tarantino’s use of their tracks in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
