Saluda Shoals began in the spring of 2015 as an acoustic project between Henri Gates (Southwood) and Cassie Verhaeghe (Brushfires). Originally called Smoking Guns, the duo began writing music and performing nightly, quickly making a name for themselves. In January 2016 the band recruited some of Charleston's best musicians and shortly after began performing as Saluda Shoals. In the short time since its conception, Saluda Shoals has released a 5 song EP available at all major online stores and has won competitions and award nominations across the Southeast.

Nominated for four 2016 Independent Tone Awards:
- Best Country Artist
- Best Rock Artist
- Best American Roots Artist
- Best American Roots Original Song ("I Fall")

Nominated for Charleston City Paper Music Awards "Best Americana/Country Artist"

1st place winner of Wild Wing Cafe's "Last Band Standing" June 2016

1st place winner Palmetto Brewing's "Battle of the Bands" July 2016