MTV News caught up with Snoop Dogg to talk about the rising MCs cropping up out of his home state. Though it hasn't been center stage in the rap game for some time now, the recent success of Odd Future, Dom Kennedy and other California-based rappers has sparked a renewed interest in the sunshine state, and, of course, Uncle Snoop is the authority on the west coast rap game.

"As far as the New West or the young MCs out here on the West Coast, I'm very familiar with them," Snoop told MTV News. "I always keep my ear to the streets and I always love being a part of what's new and fly representing the West Coast."

Snoop is also committed to helping these younger artists succeed, even if it means not getting paid. "I keep my ear glued to the street when it comes to these new acts from the West. I try to be a part of their projects and a part of blowing them up," he said.

"When you doing those types of situations, you building relationships and you building trust in a community that doesn't have no trust right now," said Snoop. "To me, that means more to me to be able to go back and give these artists a shot and not overcharge them and try to rob the bank and say, 'Give me what I'm worth.' Nah, let me give you a shot, because if we playing team ball and I'm from the West, you guys are a part of my team."

Next week, MTV News will air New West, a special feature on the next wave of hip-hop acts acts ushering in a new era of L.A. rap.