In addition to producing columns of music criticism for the Sunday Times, Jewell was the author of a number of books about popular music including The Popular Voice (1980), Duke - A Portrait of Duke Ellington (1981), and Frank Sinatra (co-written with George Perry, 1985). He also collaborated with his wife, Elizabeth Jewell, on a series of Sunday Times crossword collections.

Derek also wrote great books of fiction, including a complex novel "Come in Number One, your time is up". A powerful book, exploring the mechanics and machinations of a fictitious conglomerate - it successfully depicts the tragedy, death, and sexual adventure of a group of executives and companies and ofersa fascinating picture of all levels of management, shop floor and board room. Although pre the current technological age - it is easily updateableand wouldsurely make a fascinating and absorbing movie.

Created in 1967, BBC Radio 3 was dedicated primarily to broadcasting live and recorded performances of classical music. Derek Jewell hosted what was known as the only "rock" show on the radio station, the weekly Sounds Interesting, although in addition to rock, Jewell hosted performers playing a wide range of experimental and even improvisational music.